The effect of a silent killer
Samantha Owens | 2/19/2004 Mitch was the captain of his high school football team, a winning team, one that made it all the way to the state championship game, before losing to their arch rival. He was a senior, a good student, well liked and handsome. He came from an affluent family with two loving parents and two siblings. He participated in church youth group functions and mentored younger students.Mitch was a great kid.
But in January of his senior year, Mitch pulled the trigger of a gun and ended his life, all the while shattering the lives of his family and friends. Earlier that same week he had been mailing out college applications. The day after his death, his name was even listed in the community newspaper for having made the school’s Dean List. Mitch didn’t display any of the typical warning sings, not one! Right to the very end, he appeared to be happy and preparing for his future. He didn’t call out for help, but deep inside he was troubled. In a heartbeat, Mitch made a bad decision.
This could very easily be any one of us. If you feel you are nearing the end of your rope, don’t make a bad decision. It may cost you your life. Talk to your parents, friends, ministers, or school counselors. You will never find relief if you don’t seek it out and let others know you need help. Thousands of people have felt your pain. There is a better option out there, even if you cannot find it on your own.
And please, think of those you will be leaving behind. Many times, people who are considering suicide feel they are alone. They think that no one cares for them, and no one will be affected once they are gone. This is far from the truth! Suicide is extremely traumatic for the friends and family members, otherwise known as the “survivors.” In addition to a person’s grief over the loss of a loved one, there may be feelings of guilt, anger, resentment, confusion and distress over unresolved issues. The stigma surrounding the suicide can make it hard for survivors to deal with their loss, and can cause them to feel isolated. Survivors often feel as if they have failed, and many also shy away from forming new relationships.
There is help available for anyone who needs it. Whether you are contemplating suicide, fear a loved one is in danger, or dealing with the loss of a loved one, look for help. There are many people and resources available such as web sites, mailing lists, and helplines. Don’t let yourself become another statistic.
If you know someone struggling with problems that may lead to suicide, encourage them to get help. It is never too early to start caring. In a lot of cases, this is what the person really needs, someone to listen. Pay attention to your feelings and to those around you. You might just save a life. |
