Suicide by Hanging

There are two basic methods of hanging: simple suspension and drop.

In simple suspension, death is most likely caused by asphyxiation due to the weight of the body being suspended in the noose.  Death is also possible by arterial and/or vein compression, cutting off blood supply to the brain, or heart and lungs.

In drop hanging, a platform is kicked out from under the person, and the person drops, instantly breaking the neck and rupturing the spinal cord, causing an almost instant death.

A key part of hanging is the knot.  Tie a simple noose with some sturdy rope, such as hemp or manila.  Test the noose, as it should tighten with applied pressure.  The knot should sit behind your neck.  The other end of the rope should be attached to something sturdy that will not move, or break, such as a hook, rafter, or railing.  The knot should be tied securely to ensure that it doesn’t slip off of the surface.  Strangulation can be achieved by sitting down, bending the knees, laying down, or kicking a platform (such as a chair) out from under you.  Of course, it should be mentioned again that the rope should be sturdy, as the body will thrash in its death throes.

If the hanging is interrupted by discovery, rope breakage, or slippage, brain damage can occur.

As with before, the scene left behind will not be pleasant for those who discover you.  Often, the tongue will swell and protrude from the mouth; the face will often turn blue due to oxygen and blood deprivation.  In all cases there will be defecation and urination.