Suicide | |
| There may be a time in everyone’s life where suicide is contemplated. Sometimes life just seems too complicated or lonely to be able to cope any longer. The threat of suicide should be taken seriously whenever it is mentioned, especially if it is constantly on someone’s mind. Usually when someone threatens suicide it is a cry for attention or help. An adolescent may find teenage years too difficult to cope with and is embarrassed to talk about certain things or relationships. In this case suicide should be an escape from responsibility. A lonely adult might be too frightened to venture out into the world and sees suicide as the “easy way out”. An observant and caring family member or friend can usually communicate with a would-be suicide victim and talk about their problems and worries. A trained psychologist or psychiatrist can also be recommended to help in understanding the underlying feelings and anxieties that may lead a person to suicide. Suicide is a purposeful act that involves planning - it is not an impulsive action. Therefore it can be stopped before it is too late by looking for signs of withdrawal, loneliness, lack of security, etc. There are many questions to ask in order to understand suicidal feelings. Is suicide contemplated because of loneliness? If so, communication with family, friends or community groups is necessary in order to feel wanted and active. Is suicide threatened in order to gain attention? If so, emptiness in one’s life has to be filled and further confidence must be gained. The Suicide Crisis Line is manned 24 hours a day and should be contacted if anyone seriously contemplates or discusses suicide. If damaging physical steps have already been taken in attempting to commit suicide, 000 Emergency must be rung urgently to call a doctor and ambulance. |
