Suicide

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What is suicide?

Suicide is when someone ends his or her own life.
Some people who attempt suicide want to die but there are others who are so desperate that it is an extreme attempt to draw attention to a problem or a situation that is causing them extreme distress and the attempt to do this can have fatal consequences.

There is no simple explanation for suicidal behaviour, but these primary factors can increase risk having a Psychiatric disorder, a previous suicide attempt, serious depression, a sense of hopelessness about the future, self unimportance, isolation and drug or alcohol misuse.
Secondary factors to take into consideration are a family history of suicide, an experience of a someone close (a friend or important adult) committing suicide, a recent loss, a significant blow to self-esteem leading to a sense of shame or guilt.

Other experiences can lead to feelings of despair and suicidal thoughts such as:

· Abuse.
· Constant rows with someone close.
· Bullying.
· Stress due to exams.
· Chronic illness.
· Parents splitting up.
· Unwanted pregnancy.
· A violent incident such as a physical attack or rape.
· Moving away from home.

There is also a range of high-risk populations or environments including,

· Individuals held in custody.
· People who are gay, lesbian or bisexual.
· Those living in rural communities.
· Those living in a foreign country.
· Students living away from home.

The common factor that links suicide is the experience of isolation.

Suicide can be prevented.
People with suicidal thoughts should always be taken seriously.
Their feelings are real and they need help and support.
Many people feel ashamed and guilty about suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts, and that not being able to cope is a weakness.
Help is available and if there is an underlying mental heath problem that has triggered the attempt, symptoms of this illness may become worse with out help or prescribed medication.

 If you need help or support explain how you are feeling and one of the team will respond to your needs.

Updated: 27th March 2009