Chapter
Suicide (IN: Death and Dying: Understanding and Care 2nd Edition, by B A Backer, N Hannon & N A Russell)
Backer B A~~Hannon N~~Russell N A
This chapter begins with a discussion of the epidemiology of suicide in the United States by age groups, ethnic groups & gender. Theoretical perspectives are presented in the categories of philosophical, sociological, psychoanalytic, biochemical & preventionist. Suicide prevention centres & individual suicide prevention, with information about myths & warning signs, is discussed next. The chapter concludes by describing the impact of suicide on survivors & health care professionals.