Suicide

Suicide is the act of taking one’s own life. One of the main reasons people commit suicide is because they feel there is no hope for the future. Their life has painted them into a corner and they see no way out. Another reason a person would resort to such drastic measures is because of shame. They can’t forgive themselves for something they have done and feel that people close to them will not forgive.

There are certain signs when a person is contemplating taking their life. The behaviors consist of giving belongings away that have always been important to them. This is a prelude to the final act of what they feel is taking control of their lives. Any accumulation of medications or purchases of firearms or other destructive equipment are also major signs.

Another more subtle sign would be for the person to give up the fight on something that they had been struggling for. Depression and excessive solitude are also warning signs. It is at this time that an intervention is essential.

There are many institutions that deal with people with suicidal tendencies. Being separated from the source of the problem is important. It could be drugs or other destructive behavior that lowered their resistance to cope. At that time, the staff can give them alternative behavior when thoughts of hopelessness envelop them. It could be as simple as a soothing bath or hot tea. The point is to interrupt the thought pattern and replace it with a positive one. They need to know that they can control their lives without ending it.