Suicide (Jones) - 10/13/16

Question 1

What is suicide?

Answer 1

Intentional self-destruction

Not only did they die by their own hand, but they INTENDED to die.

• Biological
  
  • Low CSF 5-HIAA (low metabolites of CSF serotonin)
  • Genetic component?
• Psychological
  
  • Childhood abuse may be a risk factor (may change the way that brain deals with cortisol - may be reactive to stress)
• Social
  
  • Dyadic event

Question 2

Suicide and firearms

Answer 2

Firearm in home inc. risk of suicide by five fold

Question 3

Myth: “People who talk about suicide don’t really commit suicide.”

Answer 3

Truth: 75-80% of those who commit suicide have given repeated warning signs, often talking about suicide

ALL STATEMENTS MUST BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY UNTIL FULLY EVALUATED

Question 4

Myth: “Asking a person who isn’t suicidal will put the idea into his/her head.”

Answer 4

Truth: There is minimal risk of introducing the idea to a non-suicidal person.

OPENLY ASKING ABOUT SUICIDE MAY BE LIFE-SAVING

Question 5

Suicide’s Progress (10)

Answer 5

Demographic risk factors

Clinical risk factors

Individual risk factors

HAZARD

Psychology/Warning signs

Suicide ideation

Method/Choice

Intent

Action

DEATH BY SUICIDE

Question 6

Feeling states of suicide

Answer 6

Depressed

HOPELESS, helpless, hapless

Anhedonia

Anxious/Agitated

Isolated/withdrawn

Guilt/shame

Question 7

IS PATH WARM

Answer 7

Mnemonic for suicide warning signs

Ideation

Substance Abuse

Purposelessness

Anxiety

Trapped

Hopelessness

Withdrawal

Anger

Recklessness

Mood Change