This article summarizes the field of self-directed violence and its prevention focusing on suicidal behavior. Then it describes ways in which health care practitioners, especially preventive medicine specialists, can play a role in preventing these injuries whether they practice in clinical or community based settings. A review of the importance of suicidal behavior as a public health problem, its epidemiology, and prevention approaches are discussed. Suicidal behavior results from an interaction of risk factors but much is known about these factors and many of the injuries due to this phenomenon are preventable. Prevention of suicidal behavior requires collaboration from many sectors, including health care practitioners. Preventive medicine specialists can address this problem that affects individuals, families, and communities by taking an active part as practitioners, researchers, advocates, and through education.
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