There’s an informative and helpful article in Mayo Clinic’s newsletter this week titled Suicide: What to do when someone is suicidal:
Certainly, not everyone who has thoughts of suicide or talks about suicide actually attempts it. But most people who take their own life have expressed their intention at some time. That’s why it’s important to take any talk or threat of suicide seriously, especially when someone has depression or another mental disorder, is intoxicated, or is behaving impulsively or recklessly.
While it may not be possible to prevent all suicides, your active involvement may make a difference in saving a life. Learn effective, compassionate ways to intervene and guide someone toward professional help when he or she may be considering suicide.
There is still a taboo in India about mental health issues and while it’s probably better than 10 years ago, there’s still room for improvement. I found this article on Rediff calling Bangalore “India’s suicide capital”, not exactly something to be proud of.
We read of suicides almost every day in the newspaper and I’m sure we know of at least one person who’s taken his or her life. The Mayo Clinic article above gives some helpful information on what you can do to help, if someone you know confides in you about having suicidal thoughts.
So go read the article (link again) and check out the resources below for additional information.
Resource 1: The US-based National Institute of Mental Health has more resources on suicide prevention.