On Suicide

I rarely blog about current events because I am not updated with the news. I don't like watching news because it only gets me down and angry when I see children getting raped and abused, people getting killed and robbed, war breaking out and etc. This time though I will share my 2 cents on the recent suicide of UP student Kristel Tejada. I've seen many FB status and blog of friends and I decided to also share my point of view.

Suicide is an issue close to my heart. I can't exactly remember what were my problems before during my teenage years but I have toyed with the thought of killing myself. I've never been that close to doing it but I just thought of it, maybe it was part of being a Drama Queen or being rebellious at that stage in my life. I didn't do it because I know it is a SIN. It is irreversible and physically hurts.That is why in my opinion, nobody is to blame for the death of Kristel. She made her choice. It is just sad that she came to a point in her life when she felt that she had no other option but to end her life. It is sad that she had no hope left. I think this angle needs more attention other than the circumstances surrounding her death. 

It is such a silver lining that people, the government and various organizations are united are doing steps to better our educational system. They should not have waited this long and I wish they could sustain this need for change and really come up with concrete solutions.

But going back to the suicide, I am not judging Kristel. In fact my heart goes out to her and to other people who are in the same predicament as her.There was also a recent news about a HS student who attempted suicide because she did not become and honor student. What's happening to the youth of today? I have heard several cases of suicide that I felt the need to write this post and hope that somehow it helps.

I do firmly believe though that no matter how compelling and hopeless your situation might be, suicide should not be an option. Here are some things I would like to share to those who are contemplating suicide:

1.Do your research and know that the odds are against you. There are 25 attempts at suicide for every one success. and think about what might happen if you fail, you might be in a coma or get physically hurt. You might suffer an ailment or injury that will affect the rest of your life.

2. Think of the consequence. How will your death affect your family and the people around you?

3.Talk to someone. Family and friends are the best options but there are also lots of hotline where you can keep your anonymity.

4.Express your thoughts and feelings, don't bottle it inside. Find an outlet for your problems.

5.Pray. No matter what your religion is pray to the God you believe in.

6.Listen to other people's advice. Read testimonies about those who are in similar situation.

7. "This too shall pass" this is the mantra that i keep repeating to myself every time I have overwhelming problems. Everything heals in time. Never lose hope. Never give up on life.

Note: Photo is courtesy of my husband. Model is my sister in law. They wanted an anti-Glamour shot and came up with a Suicidal Concept :)