Suicide is a Cause for Concern
There are many myths associated with suicide:
- Suicide happens without warning = False. 90% of adolescents try to tell someone beforehand.
- Suicidal people don't really want to die = True. They are in tremendous psychological pain and feel they have exhausted all avenues for coping.
They may see something painful in the future and want to avoid it. - People who threaten suicide are just seeking attention = False.
- Parents are often unaware of their children's suicidal behaviour = True
- Nice people don't kill themselves. This doesn't happen in "good families" = False. There is no socioeconomic link.
- If a person is intent on suicide, there is nothing anyone can do = False.
- Talking about suicide or asking someone if they are suicidal will encourage them to attempt = False.
I attended this seminar and would be happy to share any information with interested persons. If you know someone who is experiencing feelings of depression or hopelessness, it is important to act by seeking professional help.
It's definitely food for thought when considering lifestyle choices and how these may affect the integrity of the family unit and the community at large. What kind of future do we want for our children?
Let's not forget that teenagers are not self sufficient individuals. They need care, support, quality time, understanding and interest taken in their lives and the challenges they are confronted with. The acronym given at the seminar was LUV - Listen, Understand, Validate.
Article written by Carol Salmond on behalf of Glenda Wilks Homeopathy