What term refers to the act of ending one’s own life?

The term that refers to the act of ending one's own life is suicide. This definition is widely recognized in both medical and psychological contexts. Suicide is the conscious decision of an individual to terminate their own life, often as a result of overwhelming emotional pain, mental health disorders, or situational crises. Understanding this term is crucial for health professionals, as it is important to approach the topic with sensitivity and awareness of the underlying issues that may lead an individual to consider such an act.

In contrast, depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest in life, but it does not specifically denote the act of taking one's own life. Neglect refers to a failure to care for someone or something appropriate and does not relate to self-harm. Despair, while it can describe a profound sense of hopelessness that may accompany thoughts of suicide, is a broader emotional state and does not specifically denote the act itself. Understanding these distinctions allows for greater empathy and more effective interventions concerning mental health issues.