“There are far, far better things ahead than anything we leave behind.” — C.S. Lewis
Each year, approximately 700,000 people die by suicide.
Even in societies where suicide is illegal or culturally taboo, people still take their own lives. However, for every person who dies by suicide, there are many more who experienced suicidal thoughts or urges but ultimately obtained help and support, and did not end their lives.
For some, suicidal feelings can feel all-consuming, with no apparent way out. In the depths of despair, death may seem the only solution, and the intensity of these suicidal impulses should not be underestimated - they are real, powerful, and immediate. But it's crucial to remember that suicidal crises are often temporary, even if they don't feel that way in the moment.
Suicide is frequently a permanent response to a temporary problem. When we're depressed, our perspective narrows to the present moment, causing us to lose sight of the fact that things can and do get better with time and support. In fact, the vast majority of people who once contemplated suicide are now grateful to be alive, realizing they didn't truly want to end their lives, but rather to end their pain.
The most important step is to reach out and talk to someone. Suicidal individuals should not try to cope alone. Talking to family, friends, a doctor, or a mental health professional can provide immense relief and connect people to the help and resources they need. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Time is a critical factor in overcoming suicidal thoughts, but what happens during that time also matters greatly. When someone is feeling suicidal, they should talk about their feelings immediately, without delay. Suicide prevention hotlines and other crisis resources are available 24/7 to provide support and connect people to help.
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