Primer on Depression

Abstract

Suicide is a public health problem worldwide and one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Suicidal behavior is also a major public health concern, with more than 1 million people per year attempting suicide in the United States. Suicide is a complex phenomenon, occurring because of a convergence of genetic, environmental, psychological, social, cultural, and systemic risk and protective factors. As such, suicide prevention efforts must include interventions across the spectrum of society, from healthcare to school to public health and community efforts. This chapter reviews the risk and protective factors related to suicide; research findings about the mechanisms and functions of suicidal behavior; principles of crisis intervention; treatments to address suicidal behavior; an overview of suicide risk and treatment in special populations, including youth, geriatric, and sexual and gender minority populations; and an overview of postvention efforts.