A major initiative to fight suicide was announced recently by Dr. David Satcher, surgeon general of the United States. He emphasized that suicide is a major public health concern. According to recent suicide statistics, suicide was the ninth leading cause of death in 1996, accounting for approximately 31,000 deaths, This was higher than the number of homicides in that year by 50 percent.
A half-million attempted suicide cases show up in emergency rooms each year. The rate of suicide has increased dramatically for teenagers and is the third largest cause of death for those age 15 to 24. Even so, suicide rates are highest for white males over 65. Mental disorders and substance-abuse problems are usually involved.
The surgeon general is actively working to develop a National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, including education about suicide, increased scientific knowledge about it and comprehension of its risk and protective factors. The recognition and publicity given to this pressing issue should be supported by all of us. The focus on suicide is much needed. This is part of the growing understanding of the widespread nature of mental illness in the population.
Much hard work and education still lies ahead before there will be substantial progress in fighting this national health hazard. We should applaud this very important step forward.
