Depression & Suicide

Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one's own death mainly due to mental disorders including depression, bipolar or personality or anxiety disorders, autism, schizophrenia etc. Suicides are impulsive acts due to stress such as from financial or academic difficulties, relationship problems, harassment and bullying. There are all sorts of symptoms that are told to us or to lookout for but strangely no one ever seems to spot them, or they are well disguised by those contemplating suicide that no one around recognises it. There are many campaigns, including on social media, of suicide awareness but do they really have any effect on the possible victim who wishes to commit suicide.

One of the main reasons which is visible to all of us, as well as we are all guilty of, is that we really do not take time to talk to people who have problems of any sort. In this society we live in people do not have time for other people unless it is to get together and have a good time. I have also noticed that at social gatherings and outings many are so full of themselves that more than even gossiping about other people they are trying to take over the conversation to talk of their own achievements and brag to those around them, showing off their importance.

Also, anyone doing charity of any form wishes to have some sort of publicity in order that the entire world knows that they are doing it. A depressed person moving around in such circles or knowing persons of this nature are too scared to talk of their issues fearing the thought that it would be spoken about or laughed at resulting in them being even more depressed. Mega international personalities have committed suicide and it was certainly not for the lack of money but due to loneliness and other issues.

We should all look out for one another if possible, without being selfish. In Sri Lanka many are ashamed to visit a psychiatrist for help in case they are stigmatised. There are so many people who are depressed and cannot relate their problems to anyone. Owing to this they try to handle it in their own way, whilst some are driven to alcoholism and drug abuse.

If a friend or loved one talks or behaves in a way that makes you believe he or she might attempt suicide, do not try to handle the situation alone, do try and get some professional help as well as be around them as much as possible and support them with lots of love and genuine friendship.

If a friend or loved one talks or behaves in a way that makes you believe he or she might attempt suicide, do not try to handle the situation alone, do try and get some professional help as well as be around them as much as possible