Why Suicide?: Questions and Answers about Suicide, Suicide Prevention, and Coping with the Suicide of Someone You Know (Revised, Upd

I don't do much reading in psychology these days, although many years ago I completed a Master's and most of the coursework for the Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Calfornia. I ultimately decided not to pursue a career in it, so never finished the Ph.D., but at one time had an excellent background in the subject. Anyway, I happened to see this book in the psychology section of a local book store, and although the clinical area wasn't my specialty (I being more in the psychobiology area), it caught my eye, and I ended up reading some of it.This seemed to be a well-written and practical book on what can be a sensitive subject in our culture (or in any culture, probably). It contains a lot of background information on suicide, and more importantly, on how to deal with it if you know someone who has. I would have no reservations recommending this book for someone who needed advice or help dealing with the suicide of someone in their life.It contained some fascinating facts on the incidence of suicide--especially in Japan. For example, it seems that there is a volcano named Mahari Yama on the little island of Ohshima, 60 miles from Tokyo. According to legend, if you commit suicide by throwing yourself into the crater, you are instantly cremated, converted to a whisp of smoke, and instantly go to Heaven.A 26-year old student by the name of Ueki threw herself into the crater in the early 30's. Ueki's story became an instant sensation and legend itself, and by the time the authorities had blocked access to the crater in 1935, 940 people--800 men and 140 women, had committed suicide this way--an amazing statistic as well as amazingly tragic story.Anyway, I was impressed with the book and can recommend it for anyone needed help with this difficult area.

I found this book wery good, especially becouse now I know it's normal to feel the way I do after my mothers suicide.I found in it answer to every question I've asked since, and to many more. Eric Marcus thank you for this book, it has helped me a lot.

I completely disagree with the misspelled review above.I picked this book up in a physical bookstore today, and sat on the floor and read much of it. I found that it covered every question my friend (whose loved one committed suicide) is struggling with right now, and very thoroughly. The only reason I didn't buy that copy was that someone had gone through and underlined parts. Underlining a book in a bookstore? What's up with that? I guess, however, it was even helpful to that person who saw the book before me in the bookstore.I am thrilled to have discovered this book and am sending it directly to my friend. It is exactly the book I was looking for.