Background

Condition Lookup

Sub-Category:

Crisis Intervention

Number of Conditions: 1

Suicide

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Emergency

Sub-category: Crisis Intervention

Symptoms:
suicidal ideation; withdrawal from social connections; mood instability; giving away possessions; self-harm behaviors

Root Cause:
A complex interplay of mental illness (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis), environmental stressors, and personal risk factors like hopelessness.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of suicidal ideation, intent, and planning, often using risk assessment tools (e.g., Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale).

Treatment:
Immediate safety measures (e.g., hospitalization if high risk), psychotherapy (e.g., DBT or CBT), medications for underlying mental health conditions, and support systems.

Medications:
Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs like sertraline or fluoxetine ), mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium ), or antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine ) depending on underlying conditions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Globally, suicide accounts for over 700,000 deaths annually, making it a significant public health concern.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Mental illness, substance abuse, history of trauma, social isolation, chronic pain, or significant life stressors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dependent on timely intervention and support; individuals with ongoing treatment and a strong support system have improved outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Death, severe physical injury from failed attempts, chronic mental health deterioration, or relational disruption.