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Suicide and suicide prevention

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Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is defined as the act of killing oneself.

Frequently suicide occurs in the context of a major depressive episode, but it may also occur as a result of a substance use or other disorder. It sometimes occurs in the absence of any psychiatric disorder, especially in untenable situations, such as extreme or prolonged bereavement or declining health.

Adapted from the APA Dictionary of Psychology

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If you or someone you know needs help, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. You can also text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor.

More crisis hotlines and resources

Resources from APA

young female with depression sitting in a dark room

Suicide warning signs

Talking to teen about suicide prevention

Talking to teens: Suicide prevention

Struggling with thoughts of suicide?

Coping after suicide loss

What APA is doing

Advocacy

Suicide prevention

APA Services uses psychological research to reduce mental health stigma and advocate for initiatives that bolster education, research, and community services to identify and help individuals at risk of suicide and their families.