Health Topics for Mental and Emotional Health

Department of Psychiatry

Suicide

Suicide is the ninth leading cause of death in the U.S. It is the second leading cause of death in children and teens. Over 30,000 people kill themselves each year; about 210,000 people also attempt suicide. Women are 2 times as likely as men to attempt suicide. Men are 3 to 4 times as likely as women to complete suicide. Suicide is not just a problem of the young. The highest suicide rate is in men over age 65.

Psychiatric illness is the most important risk factor for suicide. People with major depression and bipolar illness account for 50 percent of completed suicides. People with alcohol and drug abuse problems account for another 25 percent of completed suicides.

Risk factors for suicide:

• family history of suicide
• previous suicide attempt
• terminal illness or chronic pain
• feelings of hopelessness
• depression
• male gender
• adolescence or elderly age
• Native American or white race
• marital status of being single, divorced, or widowed
• gay or bisexual
• recent loss of a loved one or job
• loss of social support and
• important dates like holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries

Almost everyone sometimes feels that it would be easier if we would go to sleep and not wake up. Then we would not have to deal with our problems. But when the crisis is over, we are glad that we are alive. The problem shrinks in importance.

If you suspect that someone may be suicidal, take action. Suicidal people need help and treatment to realize that there are always choices. Most suicides give some signals ahead of time. Adults or teens may try to get their affairs in order or give away possessions. Some children who are thinking of suicide may give away all their toys. Do not forget that small children commit suicide, too. Children as young as age 3 have been known to intentionally commit suicide. Talk to the suicidal person, the family, clergy, or your healthcare provider.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File MENT4794.rf2 VRS# 6773 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999-2000 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.