We must all cope with various stresses and strains in life but, unfortunately, some are less able than others. Many of the victims of suicide do not have adequate coping skills. Some come from troubled family backgrounds where alcohol is often an issue. The House has frequently discussed the excessive consumption of alcohol. We have become an affluent society but there are also peer and examination pressures and a need to perform outstandingly on all occasions. Modern society places a great deal of stress on the young and it is clear that stability in social relations and healthy cultural attitudes to emotional problems are needed in the fight against suicide. One of the mysteries of this illness is that often the reasons for victims taking this tragic action cannot be seen by those left to pick up the pieces.