Parasuicide, or deliberate self-harm that appears to be a suicide attempt, is often a cry for help and is most common among women aged 15 to 25 living in difficult conditions. Other mental health problems and relationship issues are often present. Suicidal ideation can also be a cry for help and should be taken seriously. Hotlines and emergency responders are available for those in need.
Parasuicide is a deliberate act of self-harm that appears to be a suicide attempt even if the person who committed it did not intend the act to be lethal. Sometimes called suicidal gestures, most mental health professionals see these acts as a means for a disturbed person to express a need for help. These acts are most commonly performed with a low toxicity overdose.
Women between the ages of 15 and 25 are more likely to commit acts of parasuicide. There is an established link to poverty among those who commit suicidal gestures. It is more common among married teenagers, divorced women and single women.
Among people aged 10 to 24, suicide is the third leading cause of death. After young women, the second most likely group to commit suicide are unmarried men in their 30s. Women attempt suicide twice as often as men, but when men attempt to kill themselves they are four times more likely to die.
Other mental health problems, such as depression or alcoholism, are usually present in someone who commits a suicidal act. Relationship problems are often present in those who commit an act of parasuicide. Difficult living conditions are also often a factor. These can include unemployment, legal problems and illness.
When someone makes a suicidal act, they don’t necessarily want to take their own life; however, a parasuicide attempt is the most common factor in the history of those who ultimately commit suicide. Other signs that someone may be contemplating suicide include talking about suicide or death, giving away possessions, and engaging in self-destructive behaviors such as cutting. Suicidal ideation is thinking and talking about suicide. This in itself can be a cry for help similar to that raised by those who commit parasuicide. If the suicidal idea does not lead the person to receive the help he seeks, the next step could be parasuicide or actual suicide.
For those contemplating suicide or parasuicide, there are toll-free lines open 24 hours a day. These people can call one of these hotlines, such as 1-800-SUICIDE. If a person is in imminent danger of self-harm, call 911 or other emergency responders. Do not leave the person alone and remove anything from the home, such as drugs and firearms, that the person could use to self-harm. Talk to the person and take the concerns seriously. Seek help from outside professionals.
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