A lot of the initial responses to Robin Williams suicide that Im seeing on my Facebook feed are pleas of compassion to others who may find themselves in similar despair. Im seeing a lot of heartfelt suggestions for people who are struggling to know that they are important and to reach out to others. This is all well and good, but its barely a first step. This is making an appeal to the judgment and emotional clarity of someone who will, at that critical time and for a long time leading up to it, be severely impaired in their judgement and emotional clarity. Think of it like drunk driving. Someone may be told countless times not to drive drunk, knows its a bad idea to drive drunk, but will still drive drunk. Why? Because as they grow more drunk, their judgement of themselves and their abilities become clouded. If you are really concerned about someone driving drunk, it might not enough to suggest that they make the right choice in the future. You need to be there for them to help keep them from circumstances leading to the terrible mistake. Maybe taking their keys at the start of the night. Maybe calling them a cab when its time to go. The same applies with depression and suicide. Telling someone hey, next time you are spiraling into a pit of despair and hopelessness, make the right choice and reach out for help isnt enough. We need to be the ones to reach out. Keep our eyes peeled. Learn the behaviors and triggers of friends and loved ones who are prone to depression or other mental/emotional impairments. Be their support when they *arent* asking. Encourage professional counseling if there is the slightest chance it is appropriate. When you see something that raises concerns - BE THE ONE TO REACH OUT.
Posted on: Tue, 12 Aug 2014 19:50:41 +0000