Weekend Thoughts.....

Suicide.




To me, this is probably the saddest of all words, we know in the English language. According to Webster, the definition of Suicide is ‘the act or an instance of taking one's own life voluntarily and intentionally especially by a person of years of discretion and of sound mind’.

While John was home, he shared that in the month of February two Airman committed suicide at his base. My mom told me of a local veterinarian who killed himself just a week or so ago. How sad it must be, to feel your life is so hopeless.

Many years ago, I was in a very sad place. Reflecting on that chapter, I don’t believe I even realized how sad I felt deep in my heart. After a prolonged amount of time of feeling rundown, I went to see the family doctor. I told him I felt as though I couldn’t shake the Flu (although, I knew I did not really have the Flu). Each day I woke feeling more tired, than the night before when I went to bed. Every time I tried to eat a meal, I just knew it would not go down. My interest in daily routines, was fading. The doctor informed me that I was suffering from Depression. I told him he was mistaken, not me! Depression could never touch me, I always have loved a good laugh and to dance in my kitchen. It was explained to me that Depression is a chemical imbalance of the brain. I learned that depressive episodes have triggers; unwelcome life change such as financial hardships, relationship troubles or the loss of a loved one can easily become a trigger. Things that make you go ‘Hmmmmm’. I was referred to a Psychiatrist and was put on some anti-depressants. After a short while, I became “Me” again!

Sadly, many who are affected by Depression are not as fortunate. Sadly, many times the symptoms of Depression go undiagnosed until it is too late. Nearly one million people in the United States attempt suicide every year. Every 16 minutes!

On December 4th, I wrote a post regarding PTSD and the holiday season. There are many signs for us to look for in loved ones. Knowledge is power! Please click the box on my sidebar, ‘National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’ or visit NIMH (National Institute for Mental Health). We are living in times when jobs and finances are all in jeopardy. These times can be a trigger for any one of us.

We are living in times when our heroes are returning home. Home is not always a safe place. Home is not the same place, our heroes left when they went to defend our country! Home can be extremely difficult for our soldiers to return to!

It’s your turn……