Why is it illegal for YOU to commit suicide in the U.S?

THis question came up when I was with freinds, and I'm wondering "why is it illegal to commit suicide in the U.S?" I mean it is YOUR life and YOUR decision, plus it fits in perfectly with are society: which is too overpopulated, has to many abusive parents, and doesn't understand each other well even though we're in the age of COMMUNICATION!

So I simply want to know 'why'?
How, can they punish you anyways once your already dead?
-It's not a challenge it's an inquiry.

[grannienannie]

why would you ask a question like that...who wants to see someone that they love take their life...I know that your not thinking about doing anything...its not that your being punished you will be punishing other friends, family and people who once knew you...you punish yourself too...but it leaves a lasting effect on who you leave behind and many mind are filled with questions  that cant be answered...if every body on earth couldnt see or hear each other...thats how lonley the world would be...life is not just about one person and who your tring to punish to get your point across...because in the end when your gone A CROSS..will cover the grave where you lay...stay safe...live your life for someone else if not yourself...

[AnnieBrooke]

I don't in fact think it is illegal to commit suicide.

[RockRose]

According to this,  there are no states in the US that still consider suicide a crime.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suicide_legislation

[allmymarbles]

Like you I had the mistaken notion that it was illegal. And I always thought it screamingly funny, with visions of corpses in jail. Although I would never consider it, loving life as I do, I think a person has a perfect right to commit suicide. I am reminded of a case of a man hospitalized with terminal cancer who tried to kill himself and failed. At that hospital it was standard procedure to have the suicidal person counseled by a psychiatrist. The psychiatrist commented to the doctor in charge that the person's decision to do himself in was completely rational, given his pain and grim outlook. He seemed sorry that they guy was not successful.