Suicide

Suicide

Respond to the following based on the information in the “Suicide Rates by Age Group” article:

1. What has been the trend in suicide rates over the past few years?

This article was written in 2006, but during that time the trend is suicidal rates were lowering over the span of four years.

2. What part of the U.S. has the highest suicide rate?

The western part of the United States had the highest suicide rate at 14.7 individuals per 100,000 individuals. The south is the second highest at 13.1.

3. List three risk factors for suicide.

Previous attempts, major depression, and substance abuse are all three risk factors for suicide.

4. Many researchers worry that suicide rates for adolescents and older adults continue to increase. What does the research data show about these age groups?

In this article the research data was showing that the suicide rates for both adolescents and older adults was starting to decline. Again this article was written in 2006. Middle aged groups are the group that is the least susceptible to suicide.

5. In the U.S., what demographic has the highest rate of suicide?

The highest suicide rates in the United States are older white males.

6. List four possible reasons for the observed decrease in suicide rates.

Diagnosis of depressive disorders

Treatment of depressive disorders

Post suicide attempt treatment

Economic conditions

7. Recent media reports have suggested that medications may provoke suicidal behavior, particularly in adolescents. As a precautionary step, the FDA issued a public health advisory warning doctors to watch patients closely for worsening depression when medication is first prescribed. What does the data show about the effects of medication and suicide?

The data showed that starting some medications can increase the chance of suicide when introducing a new medication. It can increase a person’s depression where they will become suicidal.

8. Once a patient begins medication...