SuicideChapter 11

Suicide After motor vehicle accidents,

suicide is the leading cause of death among college students (3rd leading cause for adolescents).

Suicide More than 1,000 college students

each year commit suicide yearly in the U.S.

The highest rate of suicide comes from people age 75 years and older

Statistics Almost 500,000 Americans make

attempts each year that are serious enough to require medical attention.

About 30,000 people in the U.S commit suicide yearly (1 million people worldwide suicides each year)

Who is Most at Risk?

Age- Suicide rates are greater among older adults, especially white males aged 75 yrs. and above.

Gender- More women attempt suicide, but men are about 4 times as likely to complete the act.

Who is Most at Risk?

Gender Men use more lethal means,

especially firearms. Women tend to use more pills, poison

and other less lethal methods.

Who is Most at Risk? Race/Ethnicity-

White and Native Americans are more likely than African Americans and Hispanic Americans to commit suicide.

The American Indian youth suicide rate is 3 times the national average for youth.

Why the Elevated Risk? For American Indians:

Widespread sense of hopelessness due to a lack of opportunities and segregation from dominant culture sets the stage for alcohol and drug abuse.

Factors in Suicide Closely linked to mood disorders,

especially major depression and bipolar disorders.

Believing things are hopeless and one is helpless to change them can lead to the overwhelming feeling of distress.

Factors in Suicide Like depression, suicide is linked to

biochemical factors and genetic factors, both of which can affect serotonin levels.

Factors in Suicide Irregularities in serotonin may lead to

disinhibition effect- the removal of inhibitions can lead to impulsive behaviors such as suicide

Factors in Suicide Alcohol and drugs can lead to

impulsive behavior and suicidal thoughts with an increased likelihood of the behavior being acted upon.

Factors in Suicide

Schizophrenia, severe anxiety disorder, and prolonged unemployment can also increase the likelihood of suicide.

Factors in Suicide A lack of coping responses (skills)

among people who attempt or commit suicide.

Suicidal people may see no other way of resolving their problems.

Factors in Suicide Suicide is seen as an “exit event” that

leave people vulnerable and feeling stripped of crucial support structures

Factors in Suicide Teenage “copy cat” suicides; suicides

that mimic other publicized suicides across the country.

Teens with a friend who has attempted suicide are more likely than their peers to attempt suicide.

Teen Suicide Warning Signs (write 1) Expresses thoughts of death, dying

and a desire to leave this life Changes in normal habits, such as

eating and sleeping, and spending time with friends and family

Dramatic weight fluctuations, in any direction

Teen Suicide Warning Signs (write 1) Evidence of substance abuse (legal

and illegal) Dramatic mood swings Lost interest in schoolwork and

extracurricular activities

Teen Suicide Prevention (write 1) Talk to a trained professional. Remove all drugs and/or weapons

from the person (any dangers).

Teen Suicide Prevention (write 1) DON’T brush the problem off. Be a good friend. Keep in touch.