e. Stress. Stress is any situation or action that places physical or psychological
demands upon a person. Exhaustion refers to prolonged and unrelieved strain and
tension generated in a person by situations encountered in life.
f. Stressors. Stressors are specific situations that may trigger stress in a person
(for example, taking a test, playing a game of football, receiving or not receiving a
promotion, a permanent change of station).
g. Suicide. Suicide is the act of intentionally killing oneself.
h. Suicidal Attempt. A suicide attempt is the act of self-damage inflicted with
self- destructive intention, however vague and ambiguous. Sometimes this intention has
to be inferred from the person's behavior.
i. Verbal Signs. Verbal signs are spoken words or acts or interpersonal
communication, such as telephone calls or an ordinary conversation. These signs may
reveal the thoughts of a person.
4-3.
DEPRESSION
Depression is the single most outstanding characteristic of individuals who attempt
suicide and suicidal victims. The individual often believes that nothing can be done or no
one can help the situation.
a. Types of Depression.
(1) Situational loss. This includes the loss of a loved one, loss of self-esteem,
and/or the inability to admit or to express anger.
(2) Internal. This type is not related to an event or situation; it may be due to
a chemical imbalance in the brain.
b. Physical Symptoms of Depression.
(1)
Change in eating habits.
(a)
Extreme weight loss.
(b)
Extreme weight gain.
(2)
Change in sleeping habits.
(a)
Inability to sleep (insomnia).
(b)
Excessive sleep.
MD0549
4-3