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Suicide and Suffering in the Civil War Era South

Darren Blair

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Published in Aberration Of Mind: Suicide And Suffering In The Civil War Era South

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The Civil War was a time of great suffering and turmoil in the South. The war caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people, destroyed homes and businesses, and uprooted millions of people from their homes. The war also led to a sharp increase in suicide rates.

Aberration of Mind: Suicide and Suffering in the Civil War–Era South

by Diane Miller Sommerville

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22593 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	435 pages

Suicide rates in the South increased by more than 50% during the Civil War. This increase was particularly pronounced among white men, who were more likely to fight in the war and to experience the horrors of battle. The suicide rate among white men in the South was more than twice as high as the rate among white men in the North.

There were a number of factors that contributed to the high suicide rate in the Civil War era South. These factors included:

The loss of loved ones: The Civil War caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people, many of whom were young men. The loss of a loved one can be a devastating experience, and it can lead to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
The destruction of homes and businesses: The Civil War destroyed homes and businesses throughout the South. The loss of one's home or business can be a major financial and emotional blow, and it can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.
The uncertainty of the future: The Civil War created a great deal of uncertainty about the future. People did not know what would happen to them after the war, and they worried about their families and their livelihoods. This uncertainty can lead to anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

The high suicide rate in the Civil War era South had a number of consequences. These consequences included:

Increased social problems: Suicide is a major social problem. It can lead to the breakup of families, the loss of jobs, and the strain on relationships.
Increased healthcare costs: Suicide is a major cause of preventable death. The cost of treating suicide-related injuries and illnesses can be high.
Increased stigma: Suicide is a taboo topic in many cultures. This stigma can prevent people from seeking help for suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

The Civil War era South was a time of great suffering and turmoil. The high suicide rate during this period is a reflection of the pain and trauma that the war inflicted on the people of the South.

Aberration of Mind: Suicide and Suffering in the Civil War–Era South

by Diane Miller Sommerville

4.3 out of 5