[SUICIDE: EPIDEMIOLOGY, ETIOLOGY, TREATMENT AND PREVENTION]

Approximately a million people a year worldwide die by committing suicide. In Israel about 500 die by committing suicide. It is the leading cause of death in youngsters below the age of 24. More than half of them have met with their primary care physician (PCP) in the month prior to suicide. Suicide is more common in males and attempted suicide more common in females. Etiology is multifactorial and includes biological, genetic, psychological, social and environmental factors in a complex interaction. Major risk factors are male gender, psychopathology, prior suicide attempt, and accessibility to means for suicide. It is important that the PCP will ask directly on suicidal thoughts and urges in any case of suspicion. When the patient reports on suicidal thoughts or urges, it is important to create a safety plan to keep the patient safe including observation and restriction of means. It is important to treat depression early, maintain personal connections and continuity of care between hospital to PCP and mental health practitioners in the community. Early treatment of depression may save lives.