Suicide Chapter 11

Suicide  After motor vehicle accidents, suicide is the leading cause of death among college students (3 rd 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.