Did you know that survivors of suicide have an increased risk of suicide, whether the loss is a family member or friend or even a celebrity such as Robin Williams?
I discovered this due to an online training program I participated in at work, offered by Relias Academy (http://www.reliaslearning.com/). As part of World Suicide Prevention Day and also Suicide Prevention Week, there are specific courses, namely "Suicide Assessment and Treatment" which I completed yesterday and "Suicide Screening and Risk Factors" which I finished today (http://academy.reliaslearning.com/).
Both courses had some rather interesting facts on a topic society generally avoids. My recent blog posts on mental health in follow-up to Robin William's suicide beginning with my posting on August 24th of this year (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/08/part-1-aftermath-of-brilliant-comics.html) attest to this avoidance, indicated by the follow-up comments I received - thanks to those of you who did - and also to the no comments on my direct postings on suicide: "Taboo Topic: Part 2 - Who are You(th)...to be Alive?!" on February 23rd (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/02/taboo-topic-part-2-who-are-youth-to-be.html).
The courses refer to the difference and the connection between 'suicidal desire,' 'intent,' and 'capability.'
From my own experience, I had suffered from suicidal desire most of my life until about the time I accepted my dead twin sister's death (see "Part 3: In a Funk - Blue since Birth?!" on August 25th of last year, http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2013/08/part-3-in-funk-blue-since-birth.html); however, I have also since then a few times as well, especially one Christmas a few years ago (without going into details for confidentiality's sake), and when feeling incredibly alone with no one to talk to after moving to Vancouver, BC from Toronto, Ontario.
Though I have, as mentioned above, had suicidal ideation as many other folk - it's more common than you might think - I never made plans or preparations to do myself in. Thus, I have never intended to actually commit suicide.
Having a support system is really important, even if it's just one person to talk to and confide in. I learned that valuable lesson after feeling the depth of despair months after moving here.
Another potential lifesaver is having a sense of purpose, though this is probably a remote possibility for someone contemplating suicide as they experience a tunnel vision of their life. This is only one possible factor of several that could deter someone from committing suicide; see the link sites above.
I have several stories I could relate here, but prefer to keep this blog post short(er). One might leave you in shock, thus "Word-less" Wednesday would have been very apropro. However, I will consider whether to share this week or in the following one or two weeks.
Let me ponder in the meantime while I await your comments/feedback on the above and/or this question: Have you every contemplated suicide and/or do you know anyone who has?
I'm proud of you Elly,for being so brave and not having succumbed to your weak moments. I've gone through some of those, and I agree, its so important to be focused on being connected with people to have a balance.
ReplyDeleteGreat post. And hey, I finally see you on Write Tribe! Good going :) <3
Thanks Vinodini. I have come to learn that I do have courage, albeit not always. ;) I'm glad you're "here" too! ;)
DeleteIt is good to know that you didn't let that feeling rule you...I think at some point or the other in our lives we all go through a low phase and then we might think about it in passing but not all actually go through with it...And it all depends on finding that support system..
ReplyDeleteRandom Thoughts Naba...Connect To Save A Life...
I'm glad that I didn't allow for those feelings to overwhelm me completely in despair and worse, though I have had such moments for sure, such deep and utter emotional and mental pain. However, I always felt/knew that these feelings were temporary and that sooner or later I would get out of it...I never wanted to be on medication. A support system is SO important for sure! Thanks for your comment Nabanita. :) <3
DeleteSo glad to meet a strong person like you and more than glad that you didn't gave up. Kuddos to you!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your kind remark Sheethal. I appreciate that very much. :) <3 It is important that we assist others by buoying them up as much as possible so that they too fill accepted/loved. It may make a difference in the life or potential death through suicide of someone. One never knows. <3
DeleteElly, thank you for sharing. I know how easy it can be to give in to suicidal feelings especially when one is lonely. Hence, the importance of being connected.
ReplyDeleteThanks Corinne. For sure, isolation is a big issue and a growing concern especially with seniors. It can certainly lead to depression and possibly suicidal thoughts etc. It is so important to have a social network of support. :) <3
DeleteI believe every one of us go through that phase in our life when death seems better than life itself. I too have :) (i find my reasons really childish now though). Thank you for your post, and the preventive suggestions, and sharing such personal details, Elly! :) you are in inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI believe that too Asma. I think a lot of people have thought of suicide at one point in their lives, though maybe not acted on it. I didn't write the other main reason to respect the lives of others who are still alive...is that a paradox? ;) <3
DeleteI appreciate your candor and willingness to address the highly stigmatized topic of suicide. I can only imagine how difficult it was for you to open up about it, and about how it affects your own life.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sheri. I thought by opening up about it, it might help someone in their own life struggles. It certainly is important to have, as I mentioned, a support system, even one person to talk to. That thread can be all it takes to maintain a sense of sanity. :) <3
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