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Suicide

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C cavalier256Small Talker
ive thought about it many many times. but to be honest the only thing that kept me from actually doing it is the thought that if i did do it id go to hell. i felt like i had nothing to live for. i felt worthless and a waste of space. i was angry at God and at my parents for me being born. but i got put on meds and got help. im better now. but i do get depressed sometimes and think id be better off dead. but that usually passes. suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
ButtercupButtercupPost Master
CoolItGirl,

I'm so sorry for your loss. The few people I've known who committed suicide, I did not know very well - friends of friends kind of thing. But I am fortunate.

I do believe, with the downturn of the economy, depression is on the rise. Anytime there's a sense of hopelessness, the suicide rate goes up too. This isn't new. There was an immediate spike in suicides in 1929, after the "Great Crash". The suicide rate continued to be much higher than normal during the Great Depression and eventually fell during WWII. So times got better once before and they will get better again.

I think a big issue is the large amount of lonely people out there. Ironically, we have all these devices that help us to connect to each other now like the Internet and cell phones but I think people feel more isolated than ever.

Families move so much these days and rarely get to know their neighbors anymore. There's no sense of community. When a spouse dies, the widow/widower is alone for many years because people are living longer - which is a good thing, of course, but if the surviving spouse has no other family those last few years can get lonely. Then there's the mentally and physically disabled who, if they don't have family or some type of support, usually get their human companionship in the form of a home health aide or monthly appointment with a doctor.

I remember not too long ago watching a t.v. show about a day in the life of a medical examiner in, I think, Los Angeles. She investigated two suicides. One person died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound and the other stepped in front of a city bus (I think). Anyway, it was sad because she was having trouble locating family or friends for both victims. It took her a long time to find someone to inform of their deaths. Very sad.

So I say we need to start reaching out to people again. I mean, why not get to know your elderly neighbor? Just knock on the door and start talking. Older people are interesting and tell great stories. What about the guy in the community who keeps to himself and seems a bit strange? Maybe he wants a friend but is socially awkward and has no idea how to reach out.

How about offering a smile to those who are different from or who have less than you? (I mean a genuine smile, not a fake, sorority sister smile.) You never know what the smallest gesture could mean to someone.

And churches need to step up too, without trying to convert every visitor that walks through the doors. This is why many people don't turn to churches - especially the snotty mega-churches. They smell a hidden agenda.

Sorry my post is so long but this is a worthy thread. Suicide and depression need to be discussed more, and more honestly. There's no guarantee that anything you do will prevent someone from going through with suicide, but it can't hurt to really start reaching out to the lonely, the disabled and the depressed.

I hope you are speaking to someone about your own pain, CoolItGirl. You're in my thoughts.
ButtercupButtercupPost Master
I've never attempted suicide myself, or even considered it. God gave me some kind of strange determination to make it through I guess. Much of my childhood was pretty crappy because of an abusive step-father. I guess I felt like if I could get through that, then I'd have what it takes to get through anything. I just couldn't wait to turn 18 and take control of my own life; once that happened, I truly wanted to live.

However, I am human and there have been times in my life when being alive seemed useless - when life's pain had more points on the scoreboard than life's pleasure.

The only way I could see myself even considering taking my own life now is if something happened to my child. But I wouldn't want to live anyway if something happened to him, especially while he's young.
leoleoHall of Famer
I have had two people in my life that took that route. I myself have contemplated it. But for me I knew first, I didn't have the guts, and two with my luck I would pull the trigger while publishers clearing house was knocking on the door. That was, if I did, it would have gotten better eventually and I wouldn't be there to see it. If you or someone you know is that depressed or miserable you must encourage them to seek help. See a minister, see a doctor, call a helpline,or call a friend or relative. And never give that person the opportunity to act on impulse by leaving them alone. Most suicides are commited when a person is alone. If you love them, be there for them. If it is you,..call somebody.


ps. I'm starting to feel like the official greeter, but welcome to our forum Smiler
Just_Just_Old Faithful
quote:
Originally posted by Buttercup:
CoolItGirl,

I'm so sorry for your loss. The few people I've known who committed suicide, I did not know very well - friends of friends kind of thing. But I am fortunate.

I do believe, with the downturn of the economy, depression is on the rise. Anytime there's a sense of hopelessness, the suicide rate goes up too. This isn't new. There was an immediate spike in suicides in 1929, after the "Great Crash". The suicide rate continued to be much higher than normal during the Great Depression and eventually fell during WWII. So times got better once before and they will get better again.

I think a big issue is the large amount of lonely people out there. Ironically, we have all these devices that help us to connect to each other now like the Internet and cell phones but I think people feel more isolated than ever.

Families move so much these days and rarely get to know their neighbors anymore. There's no sense of community. When a spouse dies, the widow/widower is alone for many years because people are living longer - which is a good thing, of course, but if the surviving spouse has no other family those last few years can get lonely. Then there's the mentally and physically disabled who, if they don't have family or some type of support, usually get their human companionship in the form of a home health aide or monthly appointment with a doctor.

I remember not too long ago watching a t.v. show about a day in the life of a medical examiner in, I think, Los Angeles. She investigated two suicides. One person died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound and the other stepped in front of a city bus (I think). Anyway, it was sad because she was having trouble locating family or friends for both victims. It took her a long time to find someone to inform of their deaths. Very sad.

So I say we need to start reaching out to people again. I mean, why not get to know your elderly neighbor? Just knock on the door and start talking. Older people are interesting and tell great stories. What about the guy in the community who keeps to himself and seems a bit strange? Maybe he wants a friend but is socially awkward and has no idea how to reach out.

How about offering a smile to those who are different from or who have less than you? (I mean a genuine smile, not a fake, sorority sister smile.) You never know what the smallest gesture could mean to someone.

And churches need to step up too, without trying to convert every visitor that walks through the doors. This is why many people don't turn to churches - especially the snotty mega-churches. They smell a hidden agenda.

Sorry my post is so long but this is a worthy thread. Suicide and depression need to be discussed more, and more honestly. There's no guarantee that anything you do will prevent someone from going through with suicide, but it can't hurt to really start reaching out to the lonely, the disabled and the depressed.

I hope you are speaking to someone about your own pain, CoolItGirl. You're in my thoughts.
........GREAT POST, BUTTERCUP!!!!!
ms. wonkams. wonkaHall of Famer
My father committed suicide in 1997 and I have attempted it twice for reasons I will not go into here. Looking back I ask myself,"What were you thinking"? Almost everyone in my family has a chemical imbalance that causes this depression. I would advise anyone to seek help for themselves or their loved ones if suffering from depression. If someone you know suffers from depression, first reassure tham that it's not their fault, then suggest to them that they may have a chemical imbalance. If they won't seek help for themselves then you take matters into your own hands and call the suicide hotline, ask them what you can do for your loved one.

Buttercup, you nailed it on the head, great post I could've have said it better myself.
unclegusunclegusOld Faithful
I lost a very close cousin to this affliction ten years ago.
Suicide is a selfish cowardly act where nobody at all wins! It leaves the rest of us with only more questions than we started out with and the pain of the loss of a loved one that stays in your heart forever.
If it is ever suspected that I have committed suicide then I implore you to launch an investigation because it is not so!
ButtercupButtercupPost Master
quote:
Originally posted by leo:
I think Just- meant to say ANOTHER great post Buttercup. Two thumbs up and a big ol grin Big Grin


Thank you, Just, leo and O No!

I'm no C.O.B.R.A., but I do my best. Wink

I'm just not the kind of person who ignores the elephant in the room. So many people still think depression and suicide are taboo subjects that shouldn't be discussed. Well, I disagree and argue that pretending there's not a problem almost always exacerbates the problem.

People have got to stop popping so many antidepressants and abusing alcohol, start facing whatever is causing the depression, slay the monster and move on with life. I think it's the only way to experience lasting peace.
williewilliePost Master
quote:
Originally posted by Buttercup:
quote:
Originally posted by leo:
I think Just- meant to say ANOTHER great post Buttercup. Two thumbs up and a big ol grin Big Grin


Thank you, Just, leo and O No!

I'm no C.O.B.R.A., but I do my best. Wink

I'm just not the kind of person who ignores the elephant in the room. So many people still think depression and suicide are taboo subjects that shouldn't be discussed. Well, I disagree and argue that pretending there's not a problem almost always exacerbates the problem.

People have got to stop popping so many antidepressants and abusing alcohol, start facing whatever is causing the depression, slay the monster and move on with life. I think it's the only way to experience lasting peace.



Buddha taught you well! Big Grin
J JavierEverybody Knows My Name
quote:
Originally posted by Buttercup:
quote:
Originally posted by leo:
I think Just- meant to say ANOTHER great post Buttercup. Two thumbs up and a big ol grin Big Grin


Thank you, Just, leo and O No!

I'm no C.O.B.R.A., but I do my best. Wink

I'm just not the kind of person who ignores the elephant in the room. So many people still think depression and suicide are taboo subjects that shouldn't be discussed. Well, I disagree and argue that pretending there's not a problem almost always exacerbates the problem.

People have got to stop popping so many antidepressants and abusing alcohol, start facing whatever is causing the depression, slay the monster and move on with life. I think it's the only way to experience lasting peace.



Your right. I'm not going to take my antidepressants any more. I feel better when I take them but I'm going to have a go at it without my pill starting tomorrow. thanks
ButtercupButtercupPost Master
quote:
Originally posted by Javier:
quote:
Originally posted by Buttercup:
quote:
Originally posted by leo:
I think Just- meant to say ANOTHER great post Buttercup. Two thumbs up and a big ol grin Big Grin


Thank you, Just, leo and O No!

I'm no C.O.B.R.A., but I do my best. Wink

I'm just not the kind of person who ignores the elephant in the room. So many people still think depression and suicide are taboo subjects that shouldn't be discussed. Well, I disagree and argue that pretending there's not a problem almost always exacerbates the problem.

People have got to stop popping so many antidepressants and abusing alcohol, start facing whatever is causing the depression, slay the monster and move on with life. I think it's the only way to experience lasting peace.



Your right. I'm not going to take my antidepressants any more. I feel better when I take them but I'm going to have a go at it without my pill starting tomorrow. thanks


I think you missed the point. I didn't say no one under any circumstances should take antidepressants. What I am saying is they are over-prescribed.

When a patient tells her family doctor she's experiencing symptoms of depression, chances are the doctor will write a prescription for an antidepressant and that will be the end of it. Well what does that do? How does taking a pill address the underlying problem?

I'm sure antidepressants do a great job of numbing whatever is causing the depression but they don't completely alleviate it - unless you're willing to pop the pills for life.

What does work is combinations like cognitive therapy - where you identify and change your thinking, certain behaviors, etc. - alone, or therapy and antidepressants for a short while.

I'm just saying antidepressants shouldn't be taken year after year. Who do you know of that's taken them for years and is no longer depressed? I know of no one. They've become a security blanket to some people. You have to face the problem and deal with it at some point. Continuing to dull your senses with drugs won't get you there, however.

I think if you are suicidal, you should definitely use whatever therapy works; however, if you are depressed, your wellness plan should include other things that have been known to help like implementing a good diet and exercise plan, surrounding yourself with positive people, finding a support group, etc.
ms. wonkams. wonkaHall of Famer
Buttercup, while I think you are a very intelligent person and respect your opinions, you are way way off on your opinion of anti-depressants, their ingredients and why they're used. Most anti-depressants are simply serotonin reuptakes. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain which we all have , however, some people have low serotonin levels which causes depression. This is why myself and all my sisters take medication for depression.I have never heard of a way to increase these levels naturally so I and my sisters will be on meds for the rest of our lives.

Without my meds I become suicidal, wouldd you have me take my own life leaving behind my husband and children?

Before you make such harsh statements about those taking antidepressants please do some research on the chemical causes of depression first. Therapy works only if the depression is caused by their environment or lifestyle.
T TokyoLoveFamiliar Face
How right you are ms. wonka. Chemical imbalances in a person have no relevance regarding therapy. Serotonin is also a chemical that decreases in production as we age, particularly women.
So Javier, please do not discontinue your medications based on a lay person's opinion. Depending upon your condition, it can be very dangerous. If you really feel for whatever reason you'd like to discontinue your medication, it is a decision that should be made between you and your doctor.
ButtercupButtercupPost Master
quote:
Originally posted by ms. wonka:
Buttercup, while I think you are a very intelligent person and respect your opinions, you are way way off on your opinion of anti-depressants, their ingredients and why they're used. Most anti-depressants are simply serotonin reuptakes. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain which we all have , however, some people have low serotonin levels which causes depression. This is why myself and all my sisters take medication for depression.I have never heard of a way to increase these levels naturally so I and my sisters will be on meds for the rest of our lives.

Without my meds I become suicidal, wouldd you have me take my own life leaving behind my husband and children?

Before you make such harsh statements about those taking antidepressants please do some research on the chemical causes of depression first. Therapy works only if the depression is caused by their environment or lifestyle.


ms. wonka,

I would never wish for you (or anyone) to take your own life. If you've tried other options and they don't work, then certainly you should take anti-depressants and stay alive.

I have done research on the chemical causes of depression, low serotonin levels, etc., because I've had issues with depression too. I took an anti-depressant for several months and, yes, it leveled me out but it also dulled what I think is the best part of me: my creative side. And it didn't make the underlying cause of the depression go away because I wasn't dealing with it.

So then I started doing my own research about the long-term use of anti-depressants. They are drugs, you know, and all drugs come with risks to your organs, but I won't get into that. You're smart and can research it for yourself.

I finally made myself face what was causing my depression. I had serious trust issues because of a horrible step-father. So I talked to someone who helped me straighten it all out, got myself some very good books to read on alternatives to drug therapy, became a vegetarian and started exercising and basically stopped worrying about the future and the past.

I'm not saying that will work for everyone; it obviously won't for you. I'm just saying there are too many people relying on pills for too long and NOT EVEN LOOKING at other methods; I thought my earlier post cleared that up.

Some of these people need to do something as simple as turning off their t.v. and computer because all the negativity - from 24 hour news, etc. - can get to those who aren't equipped to handle it and that alone can cause depression.

Do you not think anti-depressants are over-prescribed in many cases? Do you really think everyone who's on them really needs to be taking them?
ButtercupButtercupPost Master
quote:
Originally posted by TokyoLove:
How right you are ms. wonka. Chemical imbalances in a person have no relevance regarding therapy. Serotonin is also a chemical that decreases in production as we age, particularly women.
So Javier, please do not discontinue your medications based on a lay person's opinion. Depending upon your condition, it can be very dangerous. If you really feel for whatever reason you'd like to discontinue your medication, it is a decision that should be made between you and your doctor.


I doubt Javier would have stopped taking his medications based on what another poster on a forum says. Geez! Roll Eyes

And have you ever considered who's trying to over-sell the chemical imbalance line? The pharmaceutical industry that makes billions of dollars annually on the stuff, that's who.

Again, if you can read AND comprehend you will realize I did not say no one ever, at any time and under any circumstances needs to take anti-depressants.

I said they are (say it with me) O-VER-PER-SCRIBED!

I'll leave you with an interesting article to read on the mysterious spike in the depression diagnosis in the last 20 to 30 years. Couldn't have anything to do with profits now could it?

There's plenty more where this came from. Do some research.

Depression as a mass marketing campaign
Keith McLaughlin
The Argosy.ca
November 26, 2009

Since the emergence of antidepressant drugs in the early 1980s, more and more cases of depression are being reported. According to Dr. Brad Hagen, a clinical psychologist and faculty member at the University of Lethbridge, the reason for the skyrocketing rates of depression are a matter of heated debate.

“Depending on how you look at it, depression either started becoming more common or recognized, or it became marketed,” says Hagen.

In the 1950s, reported cases of depression were practically unheard of, but now the World Health Organization warns it could become the second leading cause of disability in the world by 2020.
Most persons with depression are treated by antidepressants, even though counseling – which can be significantly more expensive and time-consuming – has demonstrated equal effectiveness in offsetting feelings of depression. In the U.S, 87 per cent of physician visits for depression result in antidepressants being prescribed.

“Some question whether it’s an overinflated number because essentially there’s people that benefit from so many people being diagnosed,” says Hagen.
T TokyoLoveFamiliar Face
quote:
Originally posted by Buttercup:
quote:
Originally posted by TokyoLove:
How right you are ms. wonka. Chemical imbalances in a person have no relevance regarding therapy. Serotonin is also a chemical that decreases in production as we age, particularly women.
So Javier, please do not discontinue your medications based on a lay person's opinion. Depending upon your condition, it can be very dangerous. If you really feel for whatever reason you'd like to discontinue your medication, it is a decision that should be made between you and your doctor.


I doubt Javier would have stopped taking his medications based on what another poster on a forum says. Geez! Roll Eyes

And have you ever considered who's trying to over-sell the chemical imbalance line? The pharmaceutical industry that makes billions of dollars annually on the stuff, that's who.

Again, if you can read AND comprehend you will realize I did not say no one ever, at any time and under any circumstances needs to take anti-depressants. I said they are - say it with me - O-VER-PER-SCRIBED!

I'll leave you with an interesting article to read on the mysterious spike in the depression diagnosis in the last 20 to 30 years. Couldn't have anything to do with profits now could it?

There's plenty more where this came from. Do some research.

Depression as a mass marketing campaign
Keith McLaughlin
The Argosy.ca
November 26, 2009

Since the emergence of antidepressant drugs in the early 1980s, more and more cases of depression are being reported. According to Dr. Brad Hagen, a clinical psychologist and faculty member at the University of Lethbridge, the reason for the skyrocketing rates of depression are a matter of heated debate.

“Depending on how you look at it, depression either started becoming more common or recognized, or it became marketed,” says Hagen.

In the 1950s, reported cases of depression were practically unheard of, but now the World Health Organization warns it could become the second leading cause of disability in the world by 2020.
Most persons with depression are treated by antidepressants, even though counseling – which can be significantly more expensive and time-consuming – has demonstrated equal effectiveness in offsetting feelings of depression. In the U.S, 87 per cent of physician visits for depression result in antidepressants being prescribed.

“Some question whether it’s an overinflated number because essentially there’s people that benefit from so many people being diagnosed,” says Hagen.


Funny, I don't recall addressing you. Don't be so defensive. Maybe you needed those 'drugs' more than you realize. Wink
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