CAUSES OF SUICIDE
Why do men complete suicide?
Some people experience interrelated risk factors in their homes, families, workpaces and communities. Coupled with difficult experiences, feelings and situations, it can seem to them that death is preferable to the pain and difficulty of continuing to live. Behind every death lies a tragic and unique story of insurmountable pain.
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It is important to not over-simplify what could have driven someone to take their life. We should not speculate about their emotional state and we should not try to look for what went wrong or who is to blame.
Individuals who are educated, employed and have friends and family are not immune from thoughts of suicide. It does not only impact people with ongoing or historical mental health issues. Many deaths occur among those who have lived free from depression or anxiety.
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It is most likely a combination of individual, relationship, community and societal risk factors that can increase the possibility that a person will attempt suicide. You can find some examples below.
Personal Risk Factors
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Previous suicide attempt
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History of depression and other mental illnesses
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Serious illness such as chronic pain
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Criminal/legal problems
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Job/financial problems or loss
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Mood disorders
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Substance misuse
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Adverse childhood experiences
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Sense of hopelessness
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Violence victimisation
Relationship Risk Factors
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Bullying
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Family/loved one’s history of suicide
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Bereavement
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Loss of relationships e.g. divorce
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High conflict or violent relationships
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Social isolation
Societal Risk Factors
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Bullying
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Family/loved one’s history of suicide
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Bereavement
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Loss of relationships e.g. divorce
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High conflict or violent relationships
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Social isolation
Community Risk Factors
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Lack of access to healthcare
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Suicide cluster in the community
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Stress of acculturation
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Community violence
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Historical trauma
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Discrimination