Columbia Medicine Magazine’s Newest Issue Focuses on Suicide

The fall/winter issue of Columbia Medicine magazine, available now online, explores the epidemic of suicide, which is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Features delve into the work of Columbia researchers to gain insight into the causes of suicide and to develop strategies for prevention and the personal account of a VP&S alumnus coping with a loved one’s suicide. 

Though violence has declined over the years, suicide is now nearly twice as common as murder in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide affects certain age groups disproportionately: Suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34 and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 54 in 2017.

Explore more in the magazine’s feature stories:
—In “The Survivors Left Behind,” 2000 VP&S graduate Jennifer Ashton discusses loss following the suicide of her ex-husband. She is the chief medical correspondent for ABC News and author of the book, “Life After Suicide.”
—Longtime studies at Columbia supported by federal funding are finding answers to important research questions, described in “Studying Suicide: Brain Imaging, Neurochemistry, Molecular Genetics Offer Insight.”
—“Preventing Suicide: Genetic Studies, Screenings, Apps” discusses how Columbia researchers are exploring new ways to identify individuals at risk of suicide. 

View the full issue of Columbia Medicine magazine at columbiamedicinemagazine.org.  

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline—800-273-TALK (8255)—offers 24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.