You see there's a big difference between talking ABOUT somebody and talking TO them. In order to step past the surface we have to be able to really talk TO people that need us - and not be afraid to HEAR what they have to say. The ones who need it don't want to be talked ABOUT. They want and need someone to talk TO and they desperately need people who will LISTEN. All people want to feel cared for.
So it's time to put on your boots and get muddy. This is not an easy topic - but if you are ready to go there, please read on.
Here is the truth. People kill themselves - sometimes even children kill themselves. It's called suicide. It's OK to say the word. What's not OK is to pretend it doesn't exist and refuse to talk about it. And if we want to stop it, we have to start talking about it. Suicide is every parent's worst nightmare. I know it's mine. Making suicide a taboo subject only makes it more difficult for people who are feeling suicidal to reach out for help. There is a shame associated with suicide and suicidal thoughts that make it hard to get help. Imagine feeling so helpless that you wanted to die but being too ashamed to tell someone.
People who feel suicidal should feel comfortable talking about their feelings and reaching out for help without fear of being judged or feared by their friends or the community. Suicidal people aren't dangerous. What they are is desperate, and hopeless. As friends, families, teachers, and doctors we need to be diligent in looking out for children and adults who might need support and do it without shame or fear. There is no shame in helping and no shame in getting help. Be watchful. Our children and communities are worth it.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/index.shtml
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