Suicide attempts are very common amongst eating disorder
sufferers. Depression tends to go hand-in-hand with an eating
disorder and this can lead to the sufferer feeling like suicide
is the only option.
However, it is not always depression that is a direct cause
of a suicide attempt. Impulsive disorders such as bulimia
may cause the sufferer to attempt suicide to try to get rid
of their pain quickly.
Suicide is also common amongst anorectics. According to Mental
Help Net, only around 5% of sufferers will die as a result
of their eating disorder but half of those will be from suicide.
Contrary to popular opinion, many people who exhibit suicidal
tendencies are not necessarily trying to kill themselves.
Suicide and thoughts of suicide can occur when the weight
of problems on an individual's shoulders outweighs their coping
skills.
Common reactions from other people may be, "That's not
enough to be suicidal about" or "Well, Jane Doe
from down the street has far more problems than you and she
is still alive." This type of reaction is not unusual
from friends and family members. However, the reality is that
some problems may affect one person more than they affect
another.
Recognizing emergency situations
If you have a friend or loved one who you think is contemplating
suicide, please read the information on our Helping a friend
or loved one page. Even if they do not attempt suicide, it
does not mean they won't do so in the future.
If you are experiencing suicidal feelings, please call somebody
and talk about it. You are not alone; many people have been
where you are right now and have found light at the end of the
tunnel.
We have lists of suicide help lines in our support area. If
you are unable to find what you are looking for there, please
call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) and you will be able to
talk to someone in confidence. It is a toll-free number for
all US states and help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week.
