For so many it seems to be the easy way out but for those left behind, suicide is hard to understand.
"It leaves a mark on everybody," said Dr. Jose Igoa, director of Doctor's Hospital at Renaissance's Behavioral Center. "There are long-term consequences and long term scars."
Dr. Igoa said suicides increase during the holidays.
"There are a lot of anniversary's that warrant that type of reaction,” Dr. Igoa said. “We see it happen more frequently around this time."
But it is no longer just the holidays that hit people hard.
With the recession, the number of people who get depressed and turn to suicide has increased.
Fortunately, there is help for depression.
"One of the most common illnesses is depression. There is treatment for that and it's very effective," said Dr. Igoa.
There are warning signs to look for if you suspect someone is contemplating suicide.
- They give away possessions
- They lose interest in hobbies they use to enjoy
- They start saying things like, "Life isn't worth living'
- They seem more depressed than usual
- They have a problem with substance abuse.
- They have a change in appetite
- They are no longer energetic
- They are depressed
- They have a problem with substance abuse
Risk Factors to look for:
- Psychiatric disorders
- Past history of attempted suicide
- Genetic predisposition
- Impulsivity (those who are impulsive are more likely to act on suicidal impulses).
- Men are more likely to commit suicide than women.
For help you can call 1-800-SUICIDE OR 1-800-273-TALK 24 hours a day seven days a week.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKGBT