Often, a sense of helplessness is a common element. People in these stories find themselves in situations where the usual support systems have failed them. In addition, there is usually a build - up of pressure over time. It's not just a sudden decision to take deadly measures. There are often events leading up to the moment where they feel they must act. For instance, in a story about a struggling business, the owner might have tried every legal and ethical way to save it, but as the situation worsens and employees are about to lose their jobs and families are at risk of homelessness, the owner might consider some illegal or very risky financial maneuvers as a last - ditch effort.