Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one’s own death. Risk factors include mental disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, physical illnesses, and substance abuse. Some suicides are impulsive acts driven by stress, relationship problems, harassment, or bullying. Individuals who have previously attempted suicide are at a higher risk of future attempts.
Effective suicide prevention efforts include limiting access to means of suicide such as firearms, drugs, and poisons; treating mental disorders and substance abuse; careful and responsible media reporting on suicide; improving economic conditions; and providing psychotherapy, particularly dialectical behaviour therapy.
Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for approximately 1.5% of all deaths. Suicide rates are generally higher among men than women, ranging from 1.5 times higher in developing countries to 3.5 times higher in developed countries. Non-fatal suicide attempts are more common among young people and women.
Suicide is generally most common among those over the age of 70; however, in certain countries, individuals aged between 15 and 30 are at the highest risk. It is estimated that there are 10 to 20 million non-fatal suicide attempts globally each year. Such attempts may lead to serious injuries and long-term disabilities.
There is no single unifying underlying pathophysiology for suicide. It is believed to result from an interplay of behavioural, socio-economic, and psychological factors.
Suicide remains a major public health issue in India.
