Many of us have been touched at one time or the other by a suicide occurrence we heard of or read of; while some others have been directly affected by it probably due to the loss of a loved one, family member or a friend through suicide.
Before I proceed, what exactly do we mean by Suicide?
Suicide is basically an intentional taking of one’s own life. When a person engineers or plans his or her own death, we call that SUICIDE.
There is so much misinformation and misconceptions about Suicides. In view of that, today as I begin my Series on Suicide, I would like to spend some time to focus on demystifying some of the most common myths and misconceptions about Suicide. I trust this article or post will be of great help to you and your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to use the knowledge you acquire by reading this article to help someone. Enjoy the Reading…
Here are some of the most common myths and misconceptions about Suicide, as well as the actual facts which are evidence-based that I would like to share with you:
MYTH 1: People who talk about suicide don't actually commit suicide.
FACT: About 80 percent of those people who talk about suicide attempt or commit suicide.
This implies that a person who talks about suicide may be giving a warning that he may try suicide. Never forget that.
MYTH 2: A suicidal person will commit the act if he talks about his suicidal feelings to another person.
FACT: If you ask a suicidal person about his suicidal feelings, he will often feel relieved that someone finally realizes that he is in emotional difficulty.
A person with suicidal tendency will not commit the act just because you asked about his suicidal feelings; that hardly happens.
MYTH 3: All suicidal people want to die, and there is nothing anyone can do about their death wish.
FACT: Most suicidal people are undecided about whether to live or die.
They often call for help just before or just after a suicide attempt.
MYTH 4: Suicide is an impulsive act with no previous planning.
FACT: Not always. Most suicidal people have planned carefully and thought about the act for weeks.
MYTH 5: A person who attempts suicide will not try again.
FACT: The majority of people who commit suicide have tried before.
MYTH 6: Suicidal people are actually mentally ill.
FACT: Studies of many suicide notes reveal that the suicidal person is desperately unhappy, and that may not necessarily imply any mental illness (even though in most cases mood disorder – depression is most likely to be present).
KEY MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK
Most people who commit suicide give clues that they are experiencing serious difficulties, which is beginning to overwhelm them.
The clues can include certain changes in human emotions, and a change in the life-pattern of the person.
Some of these early clues are related to certain life-threatening statements they make; including unassuming statements (suicide threats) such as:
- I’m fed up with life
- What’s the essence of being alive?
- I can’t take it anymore
- I am worthless
- I wish I was never born
- I am a disaster and shame to everyone
- No one cares for me
- There is no use being alive
- No one will even notice if I’m no more
- Will you remember me when I’m no more?
- Promise me that you will take care of my children for me when I’m gone
If you or someone you know is becoming Suicidal, ACT QUICKLY TO SAVE A LIFE by calling 0551428486.
(DEUTERONOMY 30:19-20)
"19 This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live 20 and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob."
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“Place your hand over your heart, can you feel it? That is called purpose. You’re alive for a reason; so don’t ever give up nor take your precious life."
AUTHOR:
PRINCE OFFEI (PSY)
Psychotherapist & Psychologist
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