Suicide - The Most Common Killer

Suicide has become a common killer today. Reports suggest that nearly 1 million people worldwide commit suicide each year. And those who attempt to commit suicide number anywhere from 1O million to 2O million annually. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people 10-24 years of age. ln some societies suicide attempt is considered a crime. However, in most cultures and religious traditions, killing oneself is considered negative, immoral and even sinful. lt also brings far- reaching repercussions and untold grief, guilt and shame to the immediate family and friends of the one who killed himself/herself.

Many people develop suicidal tendency in the modern age, as they identify themselves with a materialistic society where success is measured in terms of recognition, wealth and power. When these are threatened or denied, they lose meaning for life. Real or imagined losses trigger suicidal thoughts, especially among the youngsters. Break-up of a relationship, loss of a friend or a family member, some mental illness, extreme disillusionment with oneself for some failure in life, monetary losses and poverty, can sometimes lead a person to taking his/her life. The human mind is a delicate faculty and it does not need much to lose its balance, especially if it is not trained to be strong and happy.

However, most cases of suicide are preventable by taking effective precautionary measures. Those who undergo stress and emotional struggles due to failures and losses as well as those with mental illness need strong support system. They need to have someone like a trusted friend, a parent, a sibling, a counsellor, a spiritual advisor to talk to and share their concerns. lf they show some warning symptoms, it is important to prescribe professional treatment.

God is the author of life. He alone has the right to take life away in the manner and time he decides. Through our belief in God, we understand the value of life and that life is precious and worth living. A person with good habits such as wholesome reading, sports activities and personal prayer are less likely to harbour suicidal thoughts in life.

Suicide is an act of self-centredness. Taking away one’s life is in a way running away from others and showing disregard for their feelings and needs. Conversely, to be other-centred, to be sensitive and helpful to others and to be involved in the affairs and problems of the society are sure insulations against suicidal tendencies.

The best and most effective preventive system for suicide is a happy and united family. This, of course, is not to deny the suicide incidents among people who live with strong family ties. lt is possible that even while living in an intact family, one can lose hope and meaning for life. However, today there is no better system in existence than a family that shares, cares, supports, encourages and prays together. lt is in and through family that children learn the values of life, faith in God, spiritual practices and hope for life, which are essential for a happy life.