The End

It is something that everyone, no matter how blissfully happy or seemingly perfect their life is has thought about, if only for a fleeting second. However, many will deny that the thought has ever crossed their mind. They are lying. What am I talking about? Suicide. Just because the thought has crossed a person’s mind, does not mean that they have seriously considered it, but to say it has never crossed their mind is disingenuous at best, and a flat out lie to cover their serious consideration of it at the worst. There is an imagined stigma attached in many of our minds to admitting that we have thought about it, no matter how briefly. We think that if we admit to the thoughts that we will either be considered unstable, unfit, or will be somehow locked away until we are proven to not be a “danger to ourselves.” This is dangerous.

If we find ourselves unable to discuss it when these thoughts come across, then it can lead to feelings of further isolation and misunderstanding, which can lead to further thoughts of suicide that slowly get more serious, and may eventually lead to action.

Sometimes it may be believed that it can only be discussed with a licensed professional. Some do not feel comfortable with that for many reasons, and others are either unable to access those professionals for whatever reason. If a person is seriously considering suicide, then yes they do need to speak to a professional, but we as the general public need to discuss it more openly and realistically. Keeping the thoughts secret, and somehow “dirty” or “evil” only adds accelerant to the flames.

Everyone is going to have difficult times in their life. Sometimes we try to open up and find some support from those around us about some of the issues, but rarely about suicide. All too often platitudes are offered. Platitudes are good in some cases, and it is easier to try to find a platitude than to discuss a sensitive topic. Often just the act of listening and being supportive means more than anything that could be said. In fact it is often the case that the platitudes are more harmful than just ignoring the person. Here follows a list of some of the worst platitudes that are very common place.

Others have it worse.

That which does not kill you only makes you stronger.

Things will get better.

Smile. Or – Turn that frown upside down.

You’re storing treasure in heaven.

It isn’t that bad.

When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.

There's always tomorrow.

 It could be worse! Someday you'll look back on this and laugh.

Let go and let god handle it.

Time heals all wounds.

Don’t worry, be happy.

Any day this side of the dirt is a good day.

Count your blessings.

This too shall pass.

If it was meant to be, it will be.

God will only give you as much as you can handle.

Instead of offering a platitude, which is the equivalent of giving a empty gift card as a gift, sometimes it is better to just shut up, listen, and most importantly, be there.