Suicide is the taking of one’s own life. It is a death that happens when someone harms themselves because they want to end their life. Suicide is a major public health problem and a leading cause of death. Suicide often stems from a deep feeling of hopelessness. You can’t see what a person is feeling on the inside, so it isn’t always easy to identify when someone is having suicidal thoughts. If you suspect that a family member or friend may be considering suicide, talk to them. Listening and showing your support is the best way to help them. There’s usually no single reason someone decides to take their own life. Several factors can increase the risk of suicide, such as having a mental health disorder. But more than half of all people who die by suicide don’t have a known mental illness at the time of their death. Depression is the top mental health risk factor, but others include anxiety and personality disorders. Aside from mental health conditions, other factors that increase the risk of suicide include poor job security, a family history of suicide, being diagnosed with a serious medical condition, such as cancer, being socially isolated or a victim of bullying or harassment. Those who have been shown to be at a higher risk for suicide are men and people over age 45. Worldwide, more than 800,000 people due to suicide each year. About 2.5% of the population makes at least one suicide attempt during their lifetime. People often turn to suicide because they are seeking relief from pain. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Nothing is impossible; you just need patience and have the motivation to resolve it.
