Suicide – What Does It Mean?
1.The act or an instance of killing oneself intentionally.
2.Undertaking an action in the knowledge that it will result in the death of the person performing it
The Consequences of Suicide
Suicide is a decision that if completed will inflict unimaginable pain on those that you leave behind.
During difficult times in life people sometimes turn to alcohol or other drugs as a way of coping. Sometimes distressing problems can appear permanent and it can seem that things will never change or get any better. This can be a lonely place to be.
Self-harm, alcohol and other drugs are used by some people as a way to try and deal with the pain and stress that they cannot tolerate in their lives.
People who are struggling with painful issues may begin to have thoughts of suicide and they may begin to see suicide as a solution to their problems and as a way of ending their pain.
The vast majority of people who take their own lives do not necessarily want to die but at that particular time in their lives they are in a vulnerable state of mind.
They may have feelings of hopelessness, may feel unwanted, unloved, financially insecure or their relationship or marriage has broken up. Their lifestyle or their community setting may be getting to them or they may feel their loved ones would be better off without them.
You are not alone and there are people who can help you find a solution to your problems however difficult your problem may appear.
The facts are that in the 21st century there should be educational programs for all ages, especially for the younger generation. There should be a door open 24/7/365 days a year.
The World Health Organization
The World Health Organisation has estimated that the risk of suicide when a person is currently abusing alcohol is eight times greater than if they were not abusing alcohol.
Closer to home, a report from the UK Mental Health Foundation states that as many as 65% of suicides were related to excessive drinking and identifies alcohol problems as one of the highest risk factors for suicide.
That report identifies a strong link between alcohol use and thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts and completed suicides among young people under the age of 24.
A HSE Report Tells Us That
Alcohol can facilitate suicide by increasing impulsivity, mood swings and deepening depression. Self-harm or suicide can take place even after just one drinking session.
A person doesn’t have to be a heavy drinker or even a regular drinker: just one session of heavy drinking can reduce inhibitions enough to self-harm or act on suicidal thoughts
Alcohol initially produces feelings of happiness and well-being but can lead to a significant lowering in mood hours after use or in the following days – an experience which is sometimes accompanied by feelings of hopelessness.
If someone is already experiencing a degree of depression, the fall in mood can lead to suicidal ideas and ongoing abuse of alcohol. This is itself a major contributing factor in depression and suicidal behaviour.
For a true life testimony of addiction and suicidal thinking you might find identification and empathy in the story about the lonely man