1. What has been the trend in suicide rates over the past few years?
The study indicates that suicide rates are declining. One reason could be the attention that has been given to antidepressants which may cause suicidal tendencies. Newer drugs are currently on the market that may decrease this side effect.
2. What part of the U.S. has the highest suicide rate?
The Western United States has the highest suicide rate at 14.7 per 100000 deaths per year followed closely by the South at 13.1 per 100000 every year.
3. List three risk factors for suicide.
Risk factors for suicide include the presence of firearms in the home, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and the antidepressants used to treat many of these disorders.
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 indicates that the suicide rate of adolescents and older adults is increasing.
5. In the U.S., what demographic has the highest rate of suicide?
Older white men hold the highest rate of suicide.
6. List four possible reasons for the observed decrease in suicide rates.
Suicide rates may decline as the result of the improving economy, healthier and longer life expectancy, the use of SSRI’s to treat depression, and the improvement in the quality of emergency medical support services and trauma care.
The Essay on Teen Suicide Depression Time Years
... -24 years old) in the US makes it the third most frequent cause of death. Teenage suicide occurs at an alarming rate and ... a time of rebellion and experimentation. Youth suicide has grown so much in recent years because of many reasons. It is easier ... alternative routes other than the norm. Another reason why suicide has gone so high is due to the fact that pressure is ...
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 is conflicting, and the results are not fully controlled, but the study seems to indicate that suicide rates are decreasing as the result of prescription antidepressants.
8. Once a patient begins medication for depression, when is that patient at the highest risk for suicidal ideation and behavior?
One study indicates that suicide rates are highest in the first 9 days and extending into the first month. This factor may be a natural response to preexisting symptoms and wane as the medication begins to work. Usually about 2 to 4 weeks.
9. Based on the readings, what is your opinion on the use of medication to help control depression and reduce the risk of suicide?
Suicide is a very time sensitive condition and needs to be addressed immediately; therefore, the quickest treatment possible would be the most effective. In my opinion, we may want to put more of our efforts into prevention especially in the treatment of depression. There are alternatives to drugs that I believe to be overprescribed in this country, Antidepressants should be a temporary solution in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness training, and relaxation techniques.
