Important to understand the complexities of suicide – Neville

“It is important to understand the complexities around suicide and the complexity of the decision to take one’s life”, stated Dan Neville TD, Chairman of Fine Gael Parliamentary Party and President of the Irish Association of Suicidology.

“The journey to suicide is complex and multifaceted.  It is influenced by several interacting factors – personal, social, psychological, cultural, biological and environmental.  The link between mental ill-health is well established.

“The World Health Organisation, in its report ‘Preventing suicide – A Global Imperative’ published in September 2014, highlights the need for strategies to target vulnerable groups.  These groups include refugees, and migrants, persons bereaved by suicide, homelessness, prisoners and LGBT people. Victims of sexual violence and child sexual abuse are especially vulnerable.   

“What causes suicide?  Is it because of poverty, unemployment, breakdown of relationships; is it depression or other mental illness; is it an impulsive act; does the disinhibiting effect of alcohol or drugs play a role? The reasons are always complex.

“Stigma surrounding mental disorders and suicide means many people are prevented from seeking help.  Stigma is one of the most pervasive barriers to seeking help for mental health problems and suicide ideation.   It leads to people avoiding living, socialising, working, renting or obtaining employment.   It causes low self-esteem, a sense of isolation and hopelessness.

“The stigma that surrounds mental, psychological and emotional ill-health must be removed.  Raising community awareness and breaking down taboos and stigma are important means of making efforts to prevent suicide.

“There are many misconceptions surrounding incidents of suicide.  One of the harshest realities for the bereaved family left behind, is the thought that the loved one found life too painful and came to the conclusion that suicide was the only way out.  But there should be no denying the fact of the death.  We need to call it what it is; suicide. Those who die by suicide do not want to die, but they just cannot bear to live in the incredible pain that their illness is causing them.  It is very important for people to hear this message.  People who die by suicide want to live as much as anyone else, but living becomes too painful.

“Who is responsible for suicide prevention?  While the responsibility for leadership lies with the State, civil society organisations and the general population can also play a key role in reducing suicide and deliberate self-harm. Community organisations and other local services like the police, citizens information personnel, addiction counsellors, clergy, representatives of sporting organisations, teachers, parents, the bereaved of suicide victims and members of the public interested in playing a role in reducing suicide all have a key role to play in reducing suicide.”