The World Health Organization noted that someone commits suicide every 39 seconds, making it one of the leading causes of death in the world.

A suicide attempt is a clear indication that something is gravely wrong in a person’s life. Irrespective of the race or age of the person; or how rich or poor they are, most people who commit suicide have a mental or emotional disorder.

Signs & Symptoms

Any one of these symptoms does not necessarily mean the person is suicidal, but several of these symptoms may signal a need for help:

• Verbal suicide threats
• Expressions of hopelessness and helplessness
• Previous suicide attempts
• Daring or risk-taking behavior
• Personality change
• Depression
• Giving away prized possession
• Lack of interest in future plans

Treatment

No single therapeutic approach is suitable for all suicidal persons or suicidal tendencies. The most common ways to treat underlying illnesses associated with suicide are with medication, talk therapy or a combination of the two.

•  Cognitive (talk therapy) and behavioral (changing behavior) therapies
•  Cognitive and behavioral homework assignments