Suicide

20% of the people who suffer from recurring depression end up taking their own life. If you have had several depressive episodes, we advise you to remember that a disease which can be treated mustn't rule your life in this way.

The risk of committing suicide is 15-20 times greater amongst people with recurring depression than amongst people without depression. But you can do a lot to prevent recurring depressive episodes.

Half of all suicides are committed by people who suffer from a mental illness, particularly depression, and that is far too many. By reading about depression - for example on Depnet - you remove yourself from the risk group because getting information about depression improves your chance of recovering.

Sex

There are many more people who attempt suicide than people who die from it. Women generally try to commit suicide 2-3 times more often than men. But men successfully commit suicide 2-3 times more often than women.

Previous suicide attempts

People who have previously tried to take their own life have an increased risk of committing suicide. But it is never too late to come out of the depression and with that the thoughts of suicide. Read more about treatment.

Suicide in the family

The risk of suicide seems to be hereditary. Suicide occurs more frequently in some families. Results from twin and adoption studies suggest that it isn't just the tendency to developing depression that is hereditary but also the actual risk of committing suicide.

Alcohol and medicinal abuse

People who are suffering from depression and simultaneously abuse alcohol or medicine have an increased risk of committing suicide. But both alcohol abuse and depression can be treated.

Physical disease

People who are both suffering from depression and a serious physical disease have an increased risk of committing suicide. But the increased risk can be reduced dramatically by preventing and treating depression.

Lack of social support

People who are alone without a family, friends and other social support also appear to have an increased risk of committing suicide. The same applies to people who are not working. It is therefore a good idea to try and make contact with other people. You can for example take part in associations or fitness centres or sports clubs. It can also be a good idea to contact the Singapore Association for Mental Health for support.

Helplines:

BeFrienders or Malayisa Mental Health Association for support


Early stages of the disease
The greatest risk of suicide attempts lies in the early stages of the disease. The majority of suicides are committed during one of the first depressive episodes. It is important that you are examined by your doctor. Even if you have just started having depressive thoughts.

Immediately after your discharge

In the weeks just after your discharge from a psychiatric ward, the risk of committing suicide is particularly great. You should therefore make sure that you are closely attached to your family and friends. Avoid being alone. Use DepNet for example to contact others or find out where there is someone to talk to.

When you stop taking your medicine

If you suddenly stop taking antidepressants or mood stabilizing medicine (e.g. lithium) the risk of developing depression again is increased. The risk of suicide is especially great immediately after you stop taking the medication.