Suicide, or the taking of one's own life, is a tragic problem. Asian American women have the highest suicide rate among women 65 or older. And suicide rates are higher than the national average for Native Hawaiians. One possible reason for the higher rate of suicide among Asian American/Pacific Islander and Native Hawaiian women is that seeking mental health support is not socially acceptable in those cultures. And many of them wait to seek treatment until symptoms of mental health problems, such as depression, reach crisis levels. Nearly one out of two Asian American/Pacific Islanders will have problems using mental health treatment because they do not speak English or cannot find services that meet their language needs. 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. Frequently Asked Questions about Suicide - This on-line publication contains answers to some of the frequently asked questions regarding suicide, what should be done if someone is contemplating suicide, the most common methods of suicide, who commits suicide more often, who is more at risk, as well as many others.

2. The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Prevent Suicide, 1999 - On July 28, 1999, Tipper Gore and Surgeon General David Satcher hosted a press conference at which the Surgeon General unveiled a blueprint to prevent suicide in the United States. The document, entitled The Surgeon General's Call To Action To Prevent Suicide, outlines more than a dozen steps that can be taken by individuals, communities, organizations and policymakers.