Counseling Center
Suicide



Crisis InformationSuicide

If you know someone who is suicidal or is in immediate risk,
please click here for information to get help.
 

 What is suicide?

Suicide is the eleventh leading cause of death in the United States and the third leading cause of death for people 15-24 years old. Suicide is often a cry for help by the individual. He or she is often feeling hopeless and helpless and thinks that suicide is the only way out of the feelings or events he or she is experiencing in his or her life.

Visit the following Web sites regarding suicide among college-age students:

The Jed Foundation

Ulifeline

 What causes suicide?

Many factors can lead to suicide. These include:

 
  • Depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses (i.e. schizophrenia and personality disorders)
  • Alcohol and drug abuse
  • Loss of a close friend or family member to suicide
  • Loss of an important relationship
  • Loss of employment or status
  • Academic issues
  • Financial problems
  • Serious illness

Who commits suicide?

  • Anyone can commit suicide
  • Women are more likely to attempt, but men are more likely to complete a suicide
  • Native Americans and Caucasians have higher suicide rates
 

Myths and Facts about suicide:

Myth: Asking someone if they are suicidal will give them the idea
Fact: If they are suicidal they've already been thinking of it. If they haven't, you're not going to give them the idea. It can let them know that it is OK to talk to you about their thoughts regarding suicide because you were comfortable enough to ask them about it.

Myth: Only crazy people think about suicide
Fact: Most people have thought of suicide sometime in their lives. Most people who do attempt suicide or complete a suicide do not suffer from severe chronic mental illness. They are often confused and feel helpless about a situation.

Myth: If a person is considering suicide, they are beyond help and nothing can be done.
Fact: Most suicidal situations are time-limited crises and are based on unclear thinking. Finding support and solutions to help them through this crisis until they can think clearly again is important.

Myth: People who make unsuccessful suicide attempts just want attention
Fact: Sometimes suicide is a way to get attention in order to get help. Just dismissing it may make things worse. Without proper help, they may make a more serious suicide attempt next time.
 

What are the warning signs?

  • The majority of those who attempt suicide give warning signs
  • They may talk about suicide and sounding helpless and hopeless
  • They may prepare for their death by making a will, giving away possessions, or by saying good-bye
  • They may make sudden changes in their personality, eating, sleeping, or sexual habits
  • They may be deeply depressed
  • They may show a sudden lift in spirits - this is because they are relieved that their problems will soon be ending.
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      Last Modified Date: July 16, 2008
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