Suicide: The Facts

Suicide: Some Facts

Suicide: Get the Facts

Most of us are uncomfortable speaking about suicide, but it's a topic that we need to deal with openly and honestly.

People who are thinking about taking their lives believe that suicide is the only way to escape the inner pain they are going through. They may be overwhelmed with lonleliness, helplessness, and depression, or they may be experiencing a major loss, such as the death of a loved one, losing a job, or the break up of an important relationship.

Suicide is a particular risk for people with schizophrenia. In fact, it is the main cause of death for people with this illness. THe sulicide rate among people with schiqophrenia is ten times higher than among the general population. Forty percent of people who have schizophrenia attempt suicide , and ten percent complete the act.

Suicide sometimes happen during a psychotic episode, but people with schizophrenia are more likely to commit suicide for the same reasons as anyone else- unemployment, homelessness, and depression- all factors that are created by having a mental illlness.

Who is most at risk of suicide?

People who are depressed or who have strong feelings of hopelessness.

People who have tried to commit suicide before.

People who have thoughts of suicide or who are preoccupied with death.

People with schizophrenia or another serious mental illness who are aware of how their illness limits them.

Young men who have frequent relapses of their illness.

People with a history of substance abuse.

What are the warning signs of suicide?

Talking or writing about suicide.

Depression or sudden calmness.

Getting one's affairs in order, or giving away prized possesions.

Hearing voices that talk about doing something dangerous.

A previous suicide attempt.

What can families and friends do?

Be alert to the warning signs of suicide.

Take any talk of suicide seriously.

If you think someone is having thoughts of suicide don't be afraid to talk about it. Bringing up the subject will not cause the person to act upon it.

Dont keep weapon's or large quantities of drugs in your house.

Contact a doctor or other health care professional immediately if someone you know is talking about suicide.

You can also call your local distress line or crisis centre.