Suicide and Suicidal Behavior
2016
This article from The Lancet describes how suicidal behavior differs between sexes, age groups, geographic regions, and sociopolitical settings, and variably associates with different risk factors, suggesting etiological heterogeneity. Suicide takes a staggering toll on global public health, with almost one million people dying from suicide worldwide each year. The World Health Organization has declared that reducing suicide-related mortality is a global imperative. Clear discussion, accurate research, and efficient treatment require accepted definitions of suicidal behaviors.
The authors argue that although there is no effective algorithm to predict suicide in clinical practice, improved recognition and understanding of clinical, psychological, sociological, and biological factors might help the detection of high-risk individuals and assist in treatment selection. Treatment of mental disorders can often prevent suicidal behavior; additionally, regular follow-up by mental health services with people who attempt suicide is key to preventing future suicidal behavior.
Source:
Turecki G, Brent DA. Suicide and Suicidal Behaviour. The Lancet 2016; 287:1227–1239. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(15)00234-2.