Suicide prevention and invisible disabilities. Why? Statistics show that anyone with a disabling condition is at a higher risk for considering suicide. Add in the emotions of dealing with a condition others cannot see nor, often, understand, and the risk for depression rises.
8 year-old Marie fell against a glass-fronted fireplace. Putting out her hands to save herself from a fall, she burned her fingers. Wailing, she repeatedly said, “I can’t go through this.” Interesting choice of words indicating an unwanted situation she just wanted to end. A very familiar emotion for someone undergoing an unending, undesirable situation.
Imagine these lives. She’s 38, enjoys life, and finds out she has an illness that will blind her, ending her choice of careers. He’s 45, a CPA, and discovers he has dementia. She’s 66, ready for a long worked-for, fun-filled retirement with her husband, but now she has severe, disabling arthritis in her back. He’s 32, just finishing his education and ready to embark on his career, and the doctor tells him he’ll live the rest of his life with weakness and pain.
So, do you think they might feel like Marie? Maybe feeling unable to face the future? Definitely, fertile ground for depression, possibly wondering, “Why should my life continue?”
While depression or thoughts of ending it all may seem like a natural conclusion, it is NOT inevitable, nor is it desirable. If you are in this situation, please read on and seek help. If you suspect your friend may be experiencing these things, please also read on. You may be able to help. You may be the only one to realize it. CAVEAT: JUST BECAUSE YOUR FRIEND IS GOING THROUGH HARD TIMES DOES NOT MEAN THEY ARE DEPRESSED. IT IS NOT AUTOMATIC.
Life-Saving Info
Myths
- People who talk about it aren’t serious.
- You must be crazy to try it.
- Nothing will stop them if they’re really serious.
- PS: Your friendship and/or intervention might!
- People who commit suicide didn’t really want help.
- Talking about it might give them the idea to try.
For further info about these myths, see Help Guide.
Warning signs
- Any talk of suicide is a cry for help. Take it seriously.
- Seeking access to lethal means.
- Preoccupation with death and/or no hope for the future.
- Saying goodbye.
- Sudden sense of calm/happiness after severe depression.
For more warning signs, see Help Guide.
For more ideas about helping yourself or someone else
See Help Guide or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You’ll find info on how to talk to someone who you think might be considering suicide. These sites have resources listed. You’ll find out what to expect when you call.
Remember:
Taking action could save a life. But don’t jump to the conclusion that just because your friend might be feeling down, they’re suicidal. They just could be temporarily feeling, “I can’t go through this,” because things are especially rough. Be a friend: talk to them.
If you feel there’s imminent danger, call the hotline: 1-800-273-8255. Better to be safe than sorry.
In conclusion,
If you’re the dweller, find your new purpose. That’s the best antidote to depression and suicidal thoughts. If you’re the observer, enjoy your friendship. A good friend could be the best remedy in his or her situation.
