Question

Suicide is the third most common cause of death for fifteen to twenty-four year olds, after accidents and homicides (Feldman 286). The rate of adolescent suicide among boys is higher than with girls, with attempts at suicide more likely to be fatal because of the use of more violent means, such as guns. However, girls attempt suicide more frequently, but attempts are less likely to be fatal because less violent means are used, such as by drug overdose (Feldman 287). When looking at statistics, it is estimated that there are as many as two hundred suicide attempts for every successful attempt (Feldman 287). There continues to be a rise in the number of adolescent suicides each year, and it is unclear exactly why this is the case. It could be from an increase in stress or depression. It could be from social inhibition, perfectionism, or anxiety. No matter the reason, if someone is going to attempt to take their own life, guns have become more easily available in the United States and this will lead to an increase in fatal suicide attempts (Feldman 286). Other reasons why adolescents may contemplate suicide are because of drugs and alcohol, abuse, eating disorders, mental illness, self-esteem, etc. (Feldman 287). In some cases a suicide or attempted suicide may be caused by exposure to the suicide of others. In this case this would be labeled as a cluster suicide, when one suicide leads to attempts by others to kill themselves (Feldman 286). If it is suspected that someone may be contemplating suicide you should take action by talking to the person and trying to understand what they are dealing with. You should ask them questions related to suicide to try and figure out if this is something that they are seriously contemplating and could actually attempt to do. It is important to stay supportive and let this person know that you care about them and that you want to help them through whatever they are struggling with. You do not want to do anything or say anything that will push them away from you and make them more distant. This is a serious matter that is truly the difference between life and death, so you should not be afraid to invade this person’s privacy or seek professional help for them. If you suspect that someone is struggling they may begin to have difficulty in school and at home. They may become depressed, loss their appetite, not be sleeping well, and be uncommunicative. Someone may also talk directly or indirectly about suicide by saying things like, “I wish I were dead,” and “You won’t have me to worry about any longer.” There may be a dramatic change in their behavior or they may do certain things as if preparing for a long trip, such as giving away their prized possessions or arranging for the care of a pet (Feldman 286). It is so important to be aware of any of these changes and to act on them because it could save someone's life. There is help for an individual whether it be for themselves or someone they care about if any thoughts on suicide arise. People can always call a telephone helpline to speak to someone about their struggles and why they are having thoughts about suicide. There should also be some help offered by the community they live in. For example, in Warren County there are family guidance facilities, counseling and psychotherapy centers, depression treatment centers, mental health recovery services, etc. If you are in school there should always be counselors available to talk about any struggles that you or someone else may be going through.

IN 9-10 LINES, WHAT DO YOU AGREE ON THIS PAGE OR HOW WOULD COMMENT?

Answer 1

This paragraph discusses the very pertinent issue of increasing number of suicides and possible intervention.Usually, the person who decides to end one's life is not able to look beyond the current crisis or the problem at hand. They think that life is over for them and they have lost grace in the society. The feeling of guilt, shame and no future catapults them to take the extreme step. The person develops lack of feeling of integration with friends, family, and society. It is here that the need for support groups could come in handy. As the paragraph discusses, usually the person contemplating suicide starts to give indications. If at this stage other people can be supportive, talk to the person or accompany them to the counsellor, assure them that whatever problem they are facing is temporary and will be over soon.Then some suicides can definitely be avoided. In addition, there should be awareness campaigns to make people aware of the symptoms of people who are going to commit suicide and about the help available. If we want to tackle the problem of suicides, in my opinion then in this fast pace competitive, individualistic world when anyone notices that their near and dear ones are withdrawing or giving indications of ending their lives then we have to slow down and take necessary steps so that we don't have to regret later.