What Can Be Done to Reduce the Risk of Suicide

Suicide rates are high and have only been increasing over the years. Over 800,000 people die all over the world by suicide each year. A proportion of the suicides are murder suicides resulting in additional loss of life. Attempts at suicide occur more frequently and we have about one million suicide attempts occurring each year. Suicide is a heart-breaking problem that is growing and needs to be addressed in as many ways as is possible. Understanding the risk factors, knowing the warning signs and what to do about them, is a crucial step. The more the awareness the greater the impact on suicide prevention. Risk Factors for Suicide Psychiatric illnesses have been diagnosed in 90% or more of individuals who die by suicide. Among the mental health conditions depression is the most potent in elevating risk for suicide. Suicidal ideation becomes more active when the severity of the depression is higher and compounded when the individual experiences a major stressful life event. The presence of other risk factors also operates to increase risk for suicide. Other mental health conditions that are associated with suicide in hierarchical order include drug abuse, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and personality disorders like borderline personality disorder.   Serious or chronic health conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, traumatic brain injuries, HIV/AIDS and chronic pain are associated with suicide risk. Individuals with such illnesses often have co-morbid depression as well....
Source: Psych Central - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Depression General Suicide Source Type: news