Yesterday, September 10, 2015 co-sponsors, the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) hosted World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD). WSPD has been hosted annually on September 10 since 2003, in its hopes to focus more awareness on the “umbrella death.” This is an event that allows other victims, survivors, and potential attempters' to come together and realize that they’re not alone. One of the main factors of suicide, besides depression, is isolation. Isolation increases the risk of suicide by a landslide, however, WSPD doesn’t only bring awareness; it also helps to create strong social connections with others in similar situations. Just being a friend or lending an open ear might be the reason someone who has become disconnected with human contact changes their mind. So, for me, the next time that you see someone who could be vulnerable to suicide, ask if they’re okay and withhold your own judgment. Letting anyone know you care, can significantly impact someone’s life. Hi. My name is Haley. I am 19 years old and I am a victim of suicide. Suicide is heart-wrenching for families and friends who are left behind. The emotional turmoil is unstable and unexpected. I personally remember a time when my family pretended nothing was wrong, that everything was perfectly normal. In reality, nothing was perfect. We were disowned from my dad’s family, people were treating us differently, and most importantly, my brother, sister, and I didn’t have a dad anymore. My mom didn’t have her husband. For some odd reason, suicide has bad connotations associated with the word and most people truly don’t know how to perceive victims of suicide. Well, for starters, death is death. It shouldn’t matter how they died, what truly matters is the grieving family that has been left behind. Instead of avoiding someone who is grieving, go up to them, offer your condolences. If you can’t think of anything to say, human contact can save the day. Trust someone who has been in that situation. Condolences can mean a lot, but a hug can mean ten times more. All my life, I have been told that victims of suicide are more likely to have suicidal thoughts.
You know the saying “there is strength in numbers?” That saying has never been truer than when dealing with suicide victims, survivors, and potential attempters'. WSPD brought awareness to the world in 2003 and now many different global organizations are involved in helping to prevent suicide. We are learning and growing together; one precious step at a time. In an emergency, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
5 Comments
9/14/2015 07:58:46 am
I admire you blogging something so close to your heart and something so important. Everyone needs to know that our life is great! Keep up the great work!
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9/14/2015 08:38:08 am
This is such a serious and difficult topic to write about. People really need to hear from the right voice. I am interested to read more about this from you!
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9/14/2015 08:45:33 am
I admire that you had the courage to write about such a topic and that you are trying to prevent it. I am actually a suicide survivor and have battled with depression. Many people don't understand what it's like to feel like there's no escape...I am stronger because I can appreciate life now. And much like you, I would like to prevent it. Suicide should never again be an option.
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9/14/2015 09:19:03 am
I'm surprised you picked a topic that is so closely related to you and your life. It is important that this issue be spoken about, and I think it's good that you have personal experience with it. I look forward to reading more of your blogs, I'm sure writing about this could get emotional for you. But keep your head up!
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