Why do People commit Sucide?

One thing we all must realize is that each of us, as a person, are not alike. Meaning, we are not all able to handle situations in life the same. Why?  What I may be able to handle in life will differ from someone else. People who kill themselves see this as the only remaining solutions to their problems. Researchers believe this maybe connected to biological and chemical imbalances.

Some reasons that drive people to this solution is loss of job, divorce, break up with a loved one, lost of a loved one. They also say though, these are not the reasons for suicide, these are only "triggers."

Ninety percent of people who commit suicide have a mental or substance abuse disorder( or both). More than half are seriously or clinically depressed.
Serious or major depression is a long-lasting sadness that doesn't let up for two weeks or more.

Some signs of depression are:

• Sadness and crying.
• Feeling tired all the time or complaining of having no energy.
• Changes in appetite or sleep.
• Loss of interest in doing things.
• Trouble thinking or concentrating.
• Spending more time alone.
• Feeling hopeless or worthless.
• Having suicidal thoughts.

Most people who drink do not kill themselves, but 20 to 25 percent of people who kill themselves are intoxicated.  Alcohol lowers self-control and increases impulsive behavior.

Other people who are at risk are people with chronic pain or a chronic illness. Older people are prone to this type of depression and can be a suicide risk. They can be helped by medication, pain management, counseling and family support.

What can we do?  Just be aware of the people you are around on a daily basis. Check on older family members. Visit with them and look for any signs of strange behavior. 

I know its hard these days, when the emphasis is placed on "me".......but let us think of the other people in our lives.  After they leave this world, you can't change anything! 

I just want to spare you the grief and living each day wondering if you could have done something to change it.  You have to learn to live with it and continue to live!

Information came from Hands on Health in South Carolina.
Thank you for your research.
Deb