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Suicide could happen to anyone, as seen on House, MD
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Adolph Hitler committed suicide in 1945 (Wikimedia Images)
House, MD is an hour-long, popular medical drama centered on an abrasive diagnostician and his fellow hospital employees. The show touches on mysterious illness and questionable ethics, while Dr. House steps on toes and bends all the rules. Recently, the show seemed to outperform itself, addressing what may be the most jaw-dropping topic to date. Dr. Foreman and Dr. Hadley discovered Dr. Kutner, dead and bloody in his apartment. It appeared to be a suicide.
While a number of television shows and movies address suicide, the threat is very real. Suicide is indiscriminate; it can affect any person from any social class. In terms of suicide, the millionaire businessman and the blue-collar worker is equal. Even someone you know may opt for self-inflicted fatality. The vast array of options is daunting, however, the more common methods include hanging, poisoning, cutting, jumping from a high altitude, or shooting oneself. Some cannot even fathom such morbid atrocities, while others are only enticed.
Mental illness plays a substantial role in many cases of suicide. Major depressive illness can ultimately end in suicide, as some simply cannot bear to continue. Schizophrenia, an illness of cognitive perception, also generates depression, and those with the disorder may commit suicide as well. Additionally, those suffering from bipolar disorder could ultimately end in suicide during a manic episode or while experiencing other associated problems. Individuals suffering from other chronic illnesses may also seek the ultimate way out, seeing death as the ultimate form of relief.
Others die in the name of protest. In 1965, for example, Norman Morrison protested US participation in the Vietnam War by burning himself to death. Further, people who are accused of crimes may opt for death over prosecution. In 1985, Bud Dwyer committed suicide on live television after the legal system declared him guilty of illegal financial practices. Military suicide, on the other hand, involves attempts to defy the war enemy. Amid World War II, the Japanese volunteered for kamikaze missions, while Adolf Hitler killed himself in 1945 so he wouldn’t have to surrender. Another type of suicide is dutiful suicide, or the sacrifice of oneself for the benefit of others. People who make this choice may be practicing a cultural norm, responding to public pressure, or volunteering. Further still, assisted suicide is a form of human euthanasia. Doctors and family members often utilize such a practice in the case of individuals who are permanently and severely injured. Such a practice is controversial and even illegal in some regions. Finally there is murder-suicide, in which someone kills him or herself while or after killing others. An often noted form is suicide bombing. Suicide bombers may act in desperation, simultaneously killing themselves and innocent bystanders.
Suicide can also involve the masses. One such example is the Jonestown massacre, which resulted in the death of 909 people, 303 of which were children. The Jonestown cult was led by Jim Jones, who coerced his followers to drink poisoned Flavor-Aid. In 2008, 19-year-old Abraham Biggs killed himself by overdosing on pills. He broadcasted the scene live on a web camera, and users of the video website saw the entire ordeal. Some even continued to encourage him as he swallowed the pills.
According to WebMD.com, there are eight signs of impending suicide. Persistent and severe depression and mood swings can be cause for concern. If, however, one suddenly becomes calm after experiencing such an emotional state, he or she may be preparing to initiate death. Additionally, becoming recluse and abandoning one’s hobbies are also signs of looming trouble. Furthermore, personality changes or a decline in grooming could point to a problem. Someone wishing to die may also engage in reckless or dangerous behavior. Suicidal individuals will also tend to last minute priorities, such as selling personal possessions, writing a will, visiting family and friends, and even writing a suicide note. Some verbalize their suicide plans, and some do not. All who hear about suicide should take such discussions seriously. Recent life trauma can trigger the desire to die, such as a death in the family, termination of employment, advanced debt, or the dissolution of a relationship. Incidentally, men commit suicide more often than women because of the social implications of asking for help. Those who are contemplating suicide, or those who know someone else thinking of suicide should call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.
Suicide is never the answer. Those who consider it are not inferior, but rather feel unable to continue living. People who know a suicidal person should absolutely address the idea, employing love, respect and understanding. People who are suicidal themselves should seek help immediately, without shame or guilt. Tomorrow is a new day, and everyone deserves the best chance for a happy future.
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