This should not be dismissed lightly. Suicide ranks among the first ten causes of death in urban communities. It is the second highest cause of death among adolescents. Professionals, including physicians, dentists, lawyers, and military personnel, have a higher than average suicide rate. A surprising number of suicides take place in prisons.
Women make two to three times as many attempts as men, but men actually succeed more often.
There are distinct signs that persons with suicidal tendencies will exhibit. These may include continuing depression, excessive drug or alcohol abuse, a breakdown in personal relationships, a significant change in eating and sleeping patterns, or a general pattern of withdrawal. For many elderly, suicide is seen as a way to maintain control over the dying process. Social factors such as broken relationships, death of a loved one, or disputes with family members may contribute to depression. Individuals with personality disorders are also prone to attempted suicide.