“It is beyond argument that the predication of an individual
suicide is, and will remain, beyond our grasp (Murphy, 1984). It may
nevertheless be possible to sharpen our recognition of those…at
substantially elevated risk of self-destruction by judicious application
of new knowledge concerning the interrelationship of just these “factors…of
little specificity” and several others.” (Murphy, 1992)
Suicide is a major, preventable public health problem. In 2004, it was
the eleventh leading cause of death in the U.S., accounting for 32,439
deaths (CDC, 2004). Every day, on average, more than 80 Americans take
their own lives, and an estimated 1,500 more attempt suicide. Although
rates for teens and young adults appear to be declining, deaths from suicide
in these age groups are still more frequent than from cancer, heart disease,
AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia and influenza, and chronic lung
disease combined. Americans 65 years and older have higher rates of suicide
than any other age group. It is the third leading cause of death in all
three age groups of children and young adults (10-14 years old, 15-19
years old, and 20-24 years old). In 1999, there were twice as many suicides
as homicides. The psychological and social impact of suicide on the family
and society is immeasurable. On average, a single suicide intimately affects
at least six other people. If a suicide occurs in a school or workplace
it has an impact on hundreds of people. Understanding how to recognize
the signs of depression and suicidal behavior is vital to all healthcare
professionals. Being comfortable asking the tough questions is a learned
skill that requires practice and continued learning.
© NYSNA 2008, all rights reserved. |