This article will provide a brief overview of suicide, highlighting risk factors and warning signs. In addition, article will offer support for individuals coping with a loved ones suicide.
It is estimated that approximately 30,000 people die from suicide each year
– this includes teenagers who account for 5,000 suicide cases. Sadly, suicide
has become a permanent solution to temporary problems. There are several
reasons why a person chooses to take their own life. In most cases, these
individuals suffer from depression, have experienced a painful loss, and so
forth.
Suicide occurs in all age groups, nationalities, and sexes. Those who
commit suicide are generally overwhelmed by life’s problems and feel that there
is no other solution to end their pain. Some who commit suicide are successful
with hiding their true emotions; thus the suicide leaves many friends and loved
ones in a state of confusion. On the other hand, some family and friends may
have recognized that the suicide victim was experiencing depression or
problems, but they did not realize the severity until it was too late.
Risk Factors for Suicide
There are several factors that put a person at risk of committing suicide.
Obviously, there is no guaranteed equation to determine whether a person will
end their life. However, accessing risk factors, and recognizing the signs of
suicide will alert family and friends to a potential problem. Risk factors
include:
Previous Suicide Attempts: Many who unsuccessfully commit suicide are
twice as likely to try again. These individuals generally do not receive
medical attention, thus they are never able to resolve negative feelings.
Personal Failure: Perfectionism is a common characteristic of suicide
victims. Everything in these individuals life must be perfect. This includes
family, work, home, personal tasks, and so forth. When the perfectionist person
cannot meet unrealistic standards, they spiral into a depressed state.
Recent Loss: The death of a loved one or a divorce places many young
children and teenagers at risk of suicide. The pain is tremendous, and suicide
appears to be the only way to alleviate hurt feelings.