Summary
Suicide, or killing oneself, is the ultimate act of despair. People with suicidal thoughts or behavior experience abnormally intense feelings of hopelessness in response to difficulties in life such as loss, disappointment and failure. For many, suicide becomes a permanent solution to problems that are often only temporary.
Women are more likely than men to attempt suicide. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to die from a suicide attempt. Older adults are the highest at-risk population in the United States. Suicide among teens and young adults has declined in recent years but continues to be a troubling phenomenon.
Suicide is closely linked to depression and impulsive behavior. Untreated depression poses the greatest risk of suicide, although many different factors can increase a person's risk. These include psychological disorders (including depression and substance abuse), chronic or terminal physical illness and environmental factors. In addition, low levels of serotonin in the brain are associated with both depression and suicidal behavior. Previous suicide attempts and a family history of suicide can also put a person at risk for suicide.
Most people who commit suicide provide some type of warning to those around them. The signs are similar to those of depression and can include a loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed, isolation and a preoccupation with death. In general, a specific plan for suicide with a date/time ...
Copyright 2009 NBC Health
Click here to read the rest of the article at HealthVideo.com
