Psy270 Appendix E Suicide

Appendix E

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?

Suicide in adolescents has increased from 1970 – 2002. Suicide in 1994 increased at 13.8 per 100,000, however by 2002 suicide decreased to 9.9. Suicide in adults for ages 25 to 44 and 45 to 64 were similar in suicide rate. There was a peak in suicide during the 1970’s and 1980’s but has since decreased in both groups in recent years.

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

The western part of the United States has the highest rate in suicide at 14.7 per every 100,000.

3. List three risk factors for suicide.

A. Being diagnosed with a mental disorder, like major depression, bipolar disorder, and a history with substance abuse.

B. Suicide attempts in the past

C. Having access to firearms.

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?

Research data shows that both adults and adolescent have a decline in suicide since the 1980’s.

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

White older male adults have the highest rate in suicide than any other demographic groups. Those 65 or older have the highest rate compared to younger age groups.

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

A. Economics standing

B. Health life expectancy

C. Decline in substance abuse

D. Decline in homicide rates

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?