More About Suicide Prevention

Over 41,000 people die by suicide every year in the U.S. alone, which is more than twice as many as those who die each year by homicide. People from all walks of life may be at risk for suicide. Some of the major risk factors for suicide include but are not limited to depression, substance abuse, family history, family violence, sexual abuse, incarceration and having guns or other deadly weapons in the house. Because there are so many potential risk factors, it is hard to determine whether someone is at risk for suicide. Researchers look to the role of both long term factors like mental health and childhood experiences and more immediate factors such as recent life events in determining whether someone is at risk. Suicide is a serious problem in the U.S. and throughout the world and it is essential that those who experience suicidal thoughts or feelings seek treatment immediately. http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/index.shtml