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  Contents
index
General Info.
what causes it?
Prozac myth
my story
dep. letter
depression is...
meds (SSRIs)
the risk of suicide
books
stigma and myths
poetry
famous people
depress. essay
article: "My Turn"
friends/family

about the author
depression links
mission statement
awards
web rings
sign guestbook
view guestbook

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© 1998-1999 Deridden Web Operations ®

The Risk of Suicide


Suicide is Serious
Every year, 30,000 Americans take their own lives in suicide. At least 15% of people with depression complete the act of suicide, but an even higher proportion will attempt it. While depression is one of the most treatable mental disorders, it is also one of the most underdiagnosed and underrecognized,

One of the most scariest experiences people suffer in their lifetime is to experience a form of depression. Over 1 in 5 Americans can expect to get some form of depression in their lifetime. Over 1 in 20 Americans have a depressive disorder every year. Depression is one of the most common and most serious mental health problems facing people today.

You Are Not to Blame
Many people still carry the misperception that suicidal thoughts or behaviors are deserved -- that when a person has reached this point in their lives, there is no turning back. Nothing could be further from the truth. You can turn back. If you are thinking about suicide right now, you may want to read this first.

Depression is not a character flaw, nor is it simply feeling blue for a few days. Most importantly, depression is not your fault. It is a serious mood disorder which affects a person's ability to function in every day activities. It affects one's work, one's family, and one's social life.

Today, much more is known about the causes and treatment of this mental health problem. We know that there are biological and psychological components to every depression and that the best form of treatment is a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Contrary to the popular misconceptions about depression today, it is not a purely biochemical or medical disorder.

Suicide Warning Signs :

  • Talk of death, suicide, or harming oneself
  • Chronic pain or anxiety
  • Constant insomnia
  • Altered personality or appearance
  • Changes in sleeping or eating habits
  • Dropping grades and/or lowered performance at work
  • Giving away valued possesions

1999 Deridden Web Operations