This is a book written by a women who has dealt with suicide both personally and professionally. Because of this, it is not only a scientifically accurate look at what is known about the reasons for suicide but is also a deeply personal look at the reasons behind suicide and the common misconceptions by the public about suicide.
Firstly the book looks at the relationship between mental illness and suicide and how prescription drugs influence the statistics in this area. The book also looks at case studies of suicide and how it has often struck unexpectedly. Although the book obviously cannot gift us with an insight into how to detect suicide, it does deal with the mental illnesses and the stigma that until recently was coupled with suicide. Even the medical profession, it seems at least in part has a shroud of suicide and the victim is often thought of at best as selfish or sinful. Jamison deals with these stereotypes showing that while suicide has a hugely detrimental effect on friends and family, it cannot be understood in a simple manner of thinking.
The book does focus moreso on suicide among young people but this is not a problem as Jamison explains this early on and recommends more research into the still frighteningly high prevalence of suicide in older people. It also shows the uses of neurotransmitters in the brain and explains studies that have linked these (or a lack of these to suicide).
This book was written right before the end of the 20th century. Therefore, Jamison expresses doubt that SSRIs and other anti-depressants and mood stablisers can cause suicide. Unfortunately, there has now been a link, she also fails to address the problem of over-prescribing dealt with in other books although this is understandable as it does not directly relate to suicide.
I would highly recommend this book. It deals well the the concept of suicide and shows the damage it inflicts widely on society.
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