understanding a suicidal student

Because every individual is unique, there is no single reason why a student commits suicide.  However, there are several factors that may contribute to a student having suicidal thoughts.  These include:

• Mental disorder such as depression, bipolar disorder, or substance abuse
• Family history of mental illness
• New and unfamiliar environment
• Academic and social pressures
• Feelings of failure (to live up to one's own or others' expectations) or decreased performance (perceived or real)
• Major life transition, such as loss of a loved one, breaking up with a boyfriend/girlfriend, failing an exam or course, not getting into one's choice of major, etc.
• Alienation and loneliness
• Lack of adequate coping skills
• Difficulties adjusting to new demands and different work loads

warning signs of someone considering suicide

At least 70% of people who commit suicide give some clue about their intentions before making an attempt.  The most effective way to prevent suicide is to know the warning signs:

• Expressing thoughts of harming oneself, writing about death or suicide, threatening to kill oneself
• Making statements about hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness
• Feeling trapped - like there is no way out
• Withdrawing from friends, family, and society
• Previous suicide attempts
• Giving away prized possessions, making a will, or putting other affairs in order
• Dramatic mood or behavior changes (including a sudden, intense lift in spirits, which may indicate that the person already feels a sense of relief knowing the problems "will be over soon")
• Losing interest in prior activities or relationships
• Self-destructive behavior (alcohol/drug abuse, self-injury or mutilation, promiscuity)
• Risk-taking behavior (reckless driving/excessive speeding, walking in front of traffic)
• Unusual calling or visiting people one cares about
• Having no reason for living or no sense of purpose in life