The phenomenon of suicide represents one of the most puzzling and disturbing human behaviors. This study aimed to build a mapping by means of social representations of the risk factors on the phenomenon of suicide in the city of Dormentes - PE, in 2009. The interest in this research was due to the high rate of suicide in the region. The field research involved the local community, such as their families, the elderly, community leaders, managers and teachers, an amount of 12 people who answered questionnaires and interviews. A survey was done on the cases of suicide in Dormentes for the period 2006-2008, together with the civil police, the notary’s office and the Secretary of Health. The results showed the occurrence of 13 cases of suicide, especially by hanging. The causes of suicide were identified as personal and financial problems, unemployment, depression, anxiety, morbid jealousy, excessive activity, inbreeding, lack of vitamins and of proper feeding, too much “medicine”, sadness and desire to stop the pain, psychological issues and repetitive thoughts. This work raises many reflections and is also a record that could be part of the public policy planning in that town, specifically in relation to public health.
Suicide; Social representation; Crisis intervention; Community mental health
