Having Problems in Life? Suicide Is NOT the Answer!

Medical professionals will tell you that suicide is an irrational act that is undertaken to solve a problem that could be handled in several other ways. However, it is a sad fact of life that each year thousands of people die by their own hand and many thousands more contemplate but don’t act on it. It is the 4th leading cause of death in the U.S. and it effects not just the immediate person, but the entire family, circle of friends and colleagues as well.

Following the act, friends and family are left with a variety of unresolved feelings and lingering doubts. What if I had only walked home with her that day? What if we had only waited for him before leaving? These kinds of questions come up in the aftermath of a suicide. While you can not necessarily prevent someone from committing this final act, you can become more attuned to the messages a friend or loved one is sending you and make sure that they see a qualified therapist.

Some clues that a suicide is in the planning stages include an inordinate preoccupation with death or dying. If every conversation turns to that subject, you should become naturally suspicious and attempt to seek help for the person. Another indication is when an individual begins to give away cherished possessions. This can be a clear sign that they are contemplating a suicidal act.

Unfortunately, suicide is often a last-minute, compulsive act resulting from a combination of circumstances and there may not be enough time to become involved. Overwhelming sadness or unresolved depression can often trigger dark thoughts and end in tragedy. Honor the memory of the person and remember the good times you had with them. Know that you are not to blame. Coping with your feelings of helplessness is generally not a good idea. Consult a professional counselor who can help you sort things through and continue with your life as normally as possible. Your friend/family member/co-worker would have wanted it that way.