Medical experts tell us that one of the most important steps in conquering a disease is to isolate it.
But there is one disease that is only made more lethal in isolation.
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States — 44,000 deaths each year. Mental health experts that one characteristic that is most prevalent among those who take their own lives is isolation. The victim withdraws from friends, family, acquaintances as his or her emotional world closes in. From what we know of those who have failed in suicide attempts, there is a prevailing feeling that no one understands their pain. They feel detached, alone and hopeless.
This week, Mississippi University for Women is conducting its annual Suicide Prevention Week, which allows mental health professionals to raise awareness of suicide, which according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-to-24.
As our understanding of suicide has grown, we realize it is a disease like many others.
From the outside looking in, it is often hard for us to understand why anyone would be driven to such a decision. But there is no rational explanation for an irrational act.
Those who commit suicide feel powerless to overcome the internal crises they feel.
It is a disease that flourishes in isolation, and that is the emphasis of this week’s MUW program.
Experts say the best means of preventing suicide is awareness.
When a friend or family member loses interest in things they enjoy, when they are suddenly less communicative, when they neglect daily tasks such as missing work or school or activities they participate in, when they do not maintain their health or hygiene — all of these are warning signs of the kind of depression that can lead to suicide.
If being aware is the first step, positive action is the next.
Engage the person. Be willing to listen without judgment. Encourage them to seek professional help.
There is an old adage that says a sorrow shared is half the sorrow.
For those who are contemplating suicide, bearing that burden alone can lead to a terminal conclusion.
Awareness is often the antidote to isolation.
We applaud MUW’s efforts to drive that point home this week.
We may never know for sure, but lives may be saved as a result of these efforts.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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