Suicide, or the taking of one's own life, is a tragic problem. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the U.S. In some segments of the American Indian and Alaska Native populations, there have been high rates of suicide. Between 1979 and 1992, the U.S. Surgeon General reported that overall, these groups have a higher rate of suicide, compared to the rest of the American population. Also, the age of suicide for American Indians is quite unlike that for the general population, because of the high rates among young adults and lower rates among the elderly. Of all women, American Indian/Alaska Native women ages 25-44 had the highest suicide rate in 2000. Many American Indian people who commit suicide haven't seen mental health providers; suicide often results from missed opportunities to treat such problems as depression, alcoholism, child abuse, and domestic violence. You can help prevent suicide. You can call 911, 1-800-SUICIDE, or the number of a suicide crisis center (you can find the number in your phone book) if you feel suicidal or know someone who talks about it. It is important to talk with someone right away.

Publications

1. Suicide in the United States - This publication provides statistics on suicide in the United States among the elderly and the young. It also provides information on which gender and age groups are vulnerable to suicide in the United States.

2. Suicide: A Crisis within the American Indian and Alaskan (Copyright © APA) - This testimony, presented before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs by the American Psychological Association outlines data on the incidence of suicide in AI/AN communities, identifies prevention programs, discusses the effectiveness of these programs and provides some recommendations and conclusions.

Organizations

1. American Association of Suicidology

2. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

3. Division of Violence Prevention, NCIPC, CDC, OPHS, HHS

4. National Indian Women's Health Resource Center (NIWHRC)

5. National Mental Health Information Center, SAMHSA, HHS

Related Topics

Suicide
Mental Health
Health
American Indian

Native American
American Indians
Child Abuse
Domestic Violence