Suicide Facts

Suicide is a complex behavior usually caused by a combination of factors. Research shows that almost all people who kill themselves have a diagnosable mental or substance abuse disorder or both, and that the majority have depressive illness. Studies indicate that the most promising way to prevent suicide and suicidal behavior is through the early recognition and treatment of depression and other psychiatric illnesses.

Most people who are depressed do not kill themselves. Suicide is considered a possible complication of depressive illness in combination with other risk factors because suicidal thoughts and behavior can be symptoms of moderate to severe depression. These symptoms typically respond to proper treatment, and usually can be avoided with early intervention for depressive illness. Any concerns about suicidal risk should always be taken seriously and evaluated by a qualified professional immediately.

Suicide Risk Factors

It is important to note that many people experience one or more risk factors and are not suicidal.

• One or more diagnosable mental or substance abuse disorder
• Impulsivity
• Adverse life events
• Family history of mental or substance abuse disorder
• Family history of suicide
• Family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
• Prior suicide attempt
• Firearm in the home
• Incarceration
• Exposure to the suicidal behavior of others, including family, peers, or in the news or fiction stories

How To Help

• It is not true that if a person talks about suicide, they will not attempt it. Seriously suicidal people make such comments for a variety of reasons--it is extremely important to take these remarks seriously and help that person seek a mental health evaluation and treatment. A person in crisis may not be aware that they are in need of help or be able to seek it on their own. They may also need to be reminded that effective treatment for depression is available, and that many people can very quickly begin to experience relief from depressive symptoms.

Prevention Programs

Studies have shown that the suicide prevention programs most likely to succeed are those with a broader focus on identification and treatment of mental illness and substance abuse, coping with stress, and controlling aggressive behaviors. All suicide prevention programs first need to be tested for efficacy and safety.

In Harm's Way: Suicide in America
Suicide is a serious public health problem. This fact sheet discusses risk factors that may lead to suicide, the differences between men and women in their suicidal behavior, and the facts regarding the increase rate of suicide among young people. Scientific research data on attempted suicide, and information on the components of a successful suicide prevention program, are presented.

Older Adults: Depression and Suicide Facts
An unrecognized and untreated medical illness, major depression is a significant predictor of suicide in elderly Americans, with individuals age 65 and older accounting for 20 percent of all suicide deaths. This fact sheet presents current research and treatment options for the elderly population, and includes a cue card to help patients and doctors recognize the symptoms of depression in older adults.

Frequently Asked Questions About Suicide

If You Are In A Crisis

Suicide Statistics

The Surgeon General's Call To Action To Prevent Suicide, 1999

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