Some Important Facts About Suicide

One million people die each year prematurely by suicide, the number of deaths exceeds the number of deaths due to homicide and war combined.

The most common risk factor for suicide is mental illness,

The risk of suicidal behaviour is increased 10 times in the mentally ill. In the USA, 90% of suicides were diagnosed as mentally ill before dying.

 The predisposing mental disorders are:

• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Alcohol
• Substance abuse

Other risk factors include:

• Family history of suicidal behaviour or suicide.
• Previous suicide attempt
• Poor socio-economic status
• Poor physical health
• Stressful events
• Relationship breakup
• Financial difficulties
• Disagreements with family/spouse

Stigma
When it comes to preventing suicide, stigma is a major problem.

This is a statement by World Suicide Prevention Day, "Comprehensive local or national plans for the prevention of suicide will not reach their full potential until the problem of stigma is effectively removed"

One reason for the stigma associated with suicide is the lack of knowledge about suicide and mental illness. Stigma is further magnified when there is lack of appropriate care for the mentally ill. 

Stigma can be reduced by increasing public awareness. Stigma can be removed through community based programs, programs that will provide knowledge about the characteristics and treatment of mental illness and the prevention of suicide

Stigma can result in discrimination and unlawful restriction of the freedom of the mentally ill. Discrimination can prevent mentally ill persons from seeking professional help.