What is it that some people may do, when they feel they are up against unbearable odds of despair, and hopelessness?
Well ... unfortunately, they become overwhelmed by such a foe, and give up on life itself ... leading many to suicide.
You may ask yourself how a person's mind can deteriorate to such a state, as to end their own life, while leaving their family, friends, and loved ones behind to grieve.
Many of those who commit suicide suffer from one form or another, of a mental illness, and are often hesitate in seeking help because of the stigma attached.
Depression is one of the major causes of suicide, and as a person's thought processes become unravelled, the individual becomes unable to reason.
Suicide is a growing statistic amongst both the young and the elderly, and shows no respect for those who may become weak, and unable to cope with unbearable emotional pain in their lives.
This emotional pain may be triggered by the death of a loved one, loss of a valued relationship, loss of self esteem or personal expectations, loss of employment, divorce, and feelings of isolation.
We, as friends, family, or a loved one may be able to help if we are able to recognize some changes in behaviour or actions, such as personality changes or withdrawn behaviour, hoarding medication, giving away prized possessions, isolation from friends and colleagues, and of course depression.
Other signs may include sudden change in behaviour (positive or negative), apathy, withdrawal, change in eating patterns, or an unusual preoccupation with death or dying.
Do not be hesitate in asking, if they have had, or are having thoughts about suicide. Offer any support that you are able, and urge them to seek the necessary professional help they need.
Let them know that you will be there by their side, to offer your comfort and understanding, without being judgmental.
Teens and suicide are more closely linked to suicide than adults might expect. In a survey of 15,000 grade 7 to 12 students, 34% knew of someone who had attempted or died by suicide, 16% had seriously considered suicide, 14% had made a suicide plan, 7% had made an attempt, and 2% had required medical attention due to an attempt.
Combining the two countries of Canada and the United States, there are approximately 40,000 deaths of all ages by suicide.
Of these, 35,000 take place in the U.S. because of the much larger population.
However, Canada's rate of suicide is 13 deaths per 100,000 people, while United States is 12 per 100,000.
The global mortality rate is 16 deaths per 100,000 or 1 every forty seconds!
In Canada, deaths by suicide out number deaths by motor vehicle accidents and homicides combined.
This very troubling statistical figure, sends out a message that is both loud and clear.
We as a society are not addressing this problem, and have been keeping it away from the public eye through misunderstanding and ignorance.
There must be steps taken to address this growing "killer" through bringing about awareness, and by having a better understanding of mental illness.
The majority of suicidal deaths can be very preventable, but only if we seek to rid society of the stigma attached, and become more familiar with what mental illness is, and not be afraid to ask questions.
Listed below are some helpful links that may help you come to a better understanding: Depression In Children And Adolescents Suicidal Behaviour How To Help Someone Who Is Feeling Suicidal Am I Depressed Diagnosing Depression ~ © Valentyne Lang ~
