The general consensus is that there are three main causes or factors – psychiatric illness, a major loss in life, which could be the loss of a job or the ending of a relationship, and the abuse of alcohol or drugs. There is also the loss of hope, the loss of the ability to visualise the future, a feeling of wishing to be removed from a difficult situation and a sense of hopelessness and isolation. This must be borne in mind by the professionals when dealing with the problem. A recently issued United Nations document states individuals in many roles and at all levels in the community can contribute to prevention, and that equipping individuals, families and communities with the knowledge and skills to foster their general health and well-being is essential.