Suicide is the act of taking one’s own life. It is the 10th leading cause of death for all ages in the United States. Suicidal thoughts or tendencies can be caused by any number of mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder or anorexia nervosa. Suicidal ideation can also be the result of trauma, substance abuse, stress or grief.Warning signs for suicide may include a change in behavior or mood, especially if the person has recently experienced a traumatic event, loss or stressful change. A person may also start talking about feeling worthless, feeling like a burden or having no reason to live. A person experiencing suicidal thoughts or behavior may benefit from medication, psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). If you or someone you know needs help, please click here for a list of resources. If you need support now, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.Information provided in part by American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
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