The number one cause of suicide is untreated or maltreated depression. However, there are several other factors that can contribute to a person’s decision to take his or her own life.  Chronic alcoholism and drug abuse are both frequent warning signs of suicidal tendencies. When coupled with severe untreated depression, these two causes can be deadly. 

What is doctor-assisted suicide?
Doctor-assisted suicide is a highly controversial procedure in which a medical professional aids a willing patient in his or her death.  The controversy stems from many sides of the issue.  Some feel that a doctor has no right to end a person’s life; if anything, a doctor should encourage his or her patient to get well.  Others feel that a medical professional is well aware of the hurt that a person may be suffering, and is thus able to ease the patient’s pain.