Introduction
In the UK over 5000 people kill themselves each year. Suicide drastically affects families and friends left behind. Men are 3 times more likely to commit suicide. Suicide rate among young people is rising. People sometimes attempt suicide but hope they will be discovered before they die – this is called a “cry for help”.
Main reasons for committing suicide:
- Depression, schizophrenia or other mental illness.
- Serious difficulties coping with life, e.g. drink, drugs, money - the person cannot see any other solution.
- Bereavement: a loved one dies and someone feels they cannot carry on without them.
- Bullying: someone feels so insecure and frightened they would rather be dead.
- Old age: a person is unable to live independently and feels it would be better if death came more quickly.
- Serious or incurable illness, or someone is in so much pain or is deteriorating quickly, they would rather die with dignity than let it drag on.
- Pressure: they feel they are not living up to other people’s expectations
