Suicidal behavior

Alternative names:

attempted suicide; suicide

Treatment:

Emergency measures may be necessary if the person has attempted suicide; first aid for bleeding, CPR or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, or other measures may be required. Hospitalization is often needed, both to treat the current attempt and to prevent future attempts. Psychiatric counseling is one of the most important aspects of treatment.

Expectations (prognosis):

All suicide threats and attempts should be taken seriously. About one-third of people who attempt suicide will repeat the attempt within one year, and about 10% of those who threaten or attempt suicide eventually do kill themselves.

Complications:

Complications vary depending on the type of suicide attempt.

Calling your health care provider:

A person who threatens or attempts suicide MUST be evaluated by a mental health professional promptly. NEVER IGNORE A SUICIDE THREAT OR ATTEMPT!