How often do people with depression commit suicide?
Some people with recurrent depression tragically end up taking their own lives. If you have had several bouts of depression, try to remember that there is no reason why a treatable illness should be allowed to dictate your life in this way.
The risk of suicide is 15-20 times higher among those with recurrent depression than among those who never suffer from depression at all. But there is a lot you can do to prevent recurrent depression.
More than 2500 Australians commit suicide each year. About half of these suicides are committed by people suffering from a mental illness, most often depression. This is far too many. Many people don't understand what depression is. By reading about depression on DepNet and by getting help you can break out of this risk group - knowing about depression will improve your chances of quickly returning to good health.
Sex
Far more people attempt suicide than actually succeed. Generally speaking, women are two to three times more likely than men to attempt suicide, but men are four times more likely than women to succeed, mainly due to the more violent methods that they choose.
Previous attempts
People who have previously attempted to take their own lives are at a significantly higher risk of suicide. However, it's never too late to get out of your depression and be free from thoughts of suicide.
Suicide in the family
Unfortunately the risk of suicide is higher if one or more members of your family have committed suicide. Another suicide in the family will feed this circle and so we would urge you to break the circle.
Alcohol or drug abuse
People who are suffering from depression and also abuse alcohol or drugs are at a greater risk of suicide. However, both substance abuse and depression can be treated.
Physical illness
People who are suffering from depression and a serious physical illness run an increased risk of suicide. However, this risk can be reduced significantly through preventive techniques and treatment for depression as well as the physical illness.
Lack of social support
People who are alone without family, friends or other form of social support also seem to be more likely to commit suicide. There are many places you can go if you feel alone.
Unemployment
Suicide is more prevalent among the unemployed than among the working population. There are many people you can turn to who can help improve your quality of life.
Rural Suicide
Suicide is more common among males in rural and remote areas than in urban areas of Australia.
Indigenous Australians
Aboriginals suicide rates are possible two to three times that of non-aboriginal Australians. More than 80% of indigenous suicides are by males.
When is the risk of suicide greatest
The risk of suicide is greatest during the early stages of the illness. Most suicides are committed during one of the first few depressive episodes. It's important that you are examined by your GP, even if you have only fleeting thoughts about suicide. It is estimated that 60% to 90% of young people who attempt suicide are considered to have depression.
After discharge
The risk of suicide is particularly high during the first few weeks after you are discharged from psychiatric care. So stick close to your family and friends and avoid being alone. You can find out how to make contact with other people here at DepNet.
Sudden discontinuation of medication
If you suddenly stop taking antidepressants or mood-stabilizers (such as lithium), the risk of developing another depression will increase. The risk of suicide is particularly high in the period immediately after you discontinue your medication.
Genetic predisposition
It seems that some people are genetically predisposed to suicide. Suicide is more common in some families, and the results from studies of twins and adopted children suggest that people can inherit a predisposition not only for depression but also for suicide.
This means that it is incredibly important for you to take depression seriously and obtain the right treatment.