Why do people kill himself

Learn about the resources…. In this article, learn about why some people consider suicide. It also covers what to do if you or a loved one experiences these thoughts. However, it is not a correct term. Learn more. Suicide is preventable with the right treatment and support. Learn about the warning signs and risk factors for suicide in this article. We also…. Worldwide, suicide is more prevalent among men than women. Learn more about causes, risk factors, and preventive steps here, as well as how to help….

Why do people kill themselves? Medically reviewed by C. Cassell, Psy. Summary Suicide refers to when someone harms themselves with the intent to end their life. Why do people consider suicide? Risk factors. Suicide and mental health. What are the warning signs? Talking about suicide. Does having suicidal thoughts mean that someone will kill themselves?

What to do if someone is considering suicide. What if they are doing it for attention? Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery? Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Related Coverage. What are suicidal thoughts? What does it mean to be at risk of suicide?

What are the warning signs of suicide? However, recent CDC data suggest that the leading means of suicide for women may be shifting toward more lethal methods. CDC data also show that suicide rates vary by race, ethnicity, age, and gender. American Indian and Alaska Native men have the highest rates of suicide, followed by non-Hispanic White males. Although the rate of suicide death among preteens and younger teens is lower than that of older adolescents and adults, it has increased over time.

Suicide now ranks as the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10 to For children under age 12, research indicates that Black children have a higher rate of suicide death than White children. NOTE: After steadily increasing for many years, the overall suicide rate decreased slightly from to You can learn more about this finding on the CDC website. Researchers are examining whether this decrease occurred across different racial, ethnic, gender, and age groups, and whether it will continue over time.

Looking for more data and statistics? For the most recent statistics on suicide and more information about suicide risk, please visit the CDC suicide prevention page and the NIMH suicide statistics page.

Suicidal thoughts or actions are a sign of extreme distress and an indicator that someone needs help. Talking about wanting to die by suicide is not a typical response to stress. All talk of suicide should be taken seriously and requires immediate attention.

Effective, evidence-based interventions are available to help people who are at risk for suicide:. If you notice warning signs of suicide—especially a change in behavior or new, concerning behavior—get help as soon as possible. Family and friends are often the first to recognize the warning signs of suicide, and they can take the first step toward helping a loved one find mental health treatment.

If someone tells you that they are going to kill themselves, do not leave them alone. Do not promise that you will keep their suicidal thoughts a secret—tell a trusted friend, family member, or other trusted adult. Knowing how to get help when someone posts suicidal messages can help save a life. Many social media sites have a process to get help for the person posting the message.

If you have thoughts of suicide, tell your health care provider. Your health care provider will listen to your concerns and can help you figure out next steps.

NIMH supports promising research that is likely to have an impact on reducing suicide in the United States. Research is helping improve our ability to identify people at risk for suicide and to develop and improve effective treatments.

NIMH researchers continue to study suicide and how to best implement suicide prevention and intervention programs in different settings, including health care, community, school, and the justice system. Research shows all individuals who attempt suicide give clues they intend to kill themselves.

All suicide threats should be taken seriously. Intervention should happen immediately. The average crisis period lasts for about two weeks. The earlier the intervention the better. Anyone can start the process to get a person thinking about suicide the help they need.

Talking about suicide does not cause someone to become suicidal. Encouraging someone to talk about pent-up emotions through a frank discussion shows that you care and are willing to help. Once the idea of suicide has been considered, the person has to plan the time, place, and means to complete the act. With early intervention, there is less time for a person in crisis to plan and the danger is decreased though not eliminated.

Promises and confidences cannot be maintained when the potential for harm exists. A sealed note can be a serious warning sign of suicidal intent. Remember, however, learning about this important subject never truly ends. Learning more will give you tools which might help prevent a suicide. Skip to Main Content. Survivors of Suicide Loss Suggested Reading. Media Information Press Releases. Training Class Registration. Mark each question below as Truth or Myth then check your answers below.

Answer Key Myth. Your Suicide Prevention Readiness Score 12 to 15 correct: You should be prepared to come to the aid of a person who is could be thinking about suicide.