October, 2000

Suicide. Now there is an ugly word. This is a topic that we do not like to talk about. But, as we are all aware, people do commit suicide everyday. Teens commit suicide. Even children commit suicide.

People want to commit suicide when they feel that there is no hope, that what they are feeling right now is what they will be feeling for the rest of their lives. When we are feeling okay, we know that everything gets better with time. However, it is hard to know that when we are in the middle of that black despair.

I have had people say to me that they have never considered suicide. I don’t believe that. We have all, at one point or another, had the fleeting thought, “If I wasn’t here, then I wouldn’t have to feel this”. This does not mean that we are suicidal. It does mean, however, that we can appreciate what those who are seriously suicidal are going through.

So, if you are feeling hopeless right now and are considering suicide as an option, here is some thing that I want you to consider: suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Whatever the issue is, we can find some way to make your life better. We might not be able to solve the problem, but we can improve areas of your life. If you are feeling as if there is no hope, connect with your spiritual side. That may mean a synagogue or church, or simply taking a walk in the park. Reconnect with nature, with the laughter of children. There are many beautiful things out there if you allow yourself to see them.

You also need to be aware of the impact your suicide has on those around you. If you have children, no matter the age, they will never totally heal from the wound that you are about to inflict on them. You may say that my children would be better off if I were dead. No, that is not true. Your children will be better off if you work on yourself, get happy and show them how to be happy, too. I know that is a lot to ask. But you can do this. Everyone around you will be wounded by your suicide. Everyone from family to the bag boy at the store. A suicide rocks the world.

Please help yourself. Please ask others to help you. Please reach out to a friend, family member, therapist, clergy. Life is worth it. Even if it doesn’t always feel that way.