SuicideWhat do we know about it ?

How can we prevent it ?

Background Information

• Suicide: Intentionally causing one’s own death.• Method: Hanging , using firearms, jumping from a height, taking

poison etc.• Sometimes difficult to determine intention because of no suicide

note written.• Suicide is criminal offence.

More Background

• 11th leading cause of death in 2000 (28,322)• 8th leading cause in 1997 (30,535)• 3rd leading cause of death for 15-24 year olds, 5th leading for 5-14

years old.• 1.3% of all deaths are from suicide (double the rate of AIDS).• Firearms account for 58% of all suicides.• Males 4x more likely to commit suicide.

Risk Factors

• Social isolation• Separation, divorce, moving or breaking up with a boyfriend or

girlfriend• Bad performance in exams or studies• Depression• 2nd biggest factor: having an alcohol or drug problem

Explanations for Suicide

Psychological• Freud: Suicide is murder turned around 180 degrees. Person identifies

themselves with a lost person or object. They become angry at loss and turn their anger inward.

Warning Signs

• Signs are often not verbal.• Giving away beloved objects.• Changes in eating or sleeping habits.• Displaying a sense of calmness after a period of agitation.

Practical Measures for Helping

•Characteristic• Unbearable pain• Frustrated needs• Seeking a solution• Hopelessness• Communication of intention

•Guideline• Reduce the pain• Fill needs• Provide alternatives• Provide hope• Listen, involve others

REQUESTGod has given you a very precious life . Your life is important not

only for you but for others also. So please dont even think of committing a suicide.