I’m not interested in having the debate on who has the right or doesn’t have the right to end their lives, mainly because that conversation never takes place with someone who knows what it’s really like to bury someone you love who has been taken by suicide. The horror and devastation that ensues when someone takes his or her life is very real and far-reaching. And so the debate on whether or not to prevent an unnecessary death becomes absurd.
What I do care about is people who are suffering endlessly in the fog of depression or any other mental illness, people whose pain and suffering is so great that the only alternative left for them is death.
I know people who have lost a loved one to suicide. I know people who have had a loved one attempt suicide. The ramifications and consequences of these actions are vast and painful. The shame and silence that often follows sets the stage for so very many future problems.
Mental illness can be a nightmare all on its own. To add the misguided belief that this is something we just don’t talk about, or to view someone suffering from a mental illness as damaged or less than a person, is unforgivable.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is compromised largely of members who have personal experience in this arena. I’ve met many of the members who have personally lost someone to suicide, often times their own spouse or child. Their stories shake me and solidify my resolve to move forward with them.
They’ve declared war on the stigma and darkness that surrounds mental illness, and on all fronts, they are dedicated to creating a culture of openness and prevention. They invest directly into research programs devoted to uncovering the genetic, biological, and physical factors that lead to suicide. They are continually expanding their survivor outreach program, which connects trained volunteers with the recently bereaved to offer support. They are working to actively train school personnel, doctors, teachers, and guidance counselors on recognizing depression and the steps to take to get help. The list goes on and on.
Think of it this way: If someone you loved very much was suffering, if they were so ill that they were ready to take their own lives, you would want someone to see the signs and take the necessary steps to stop them. You would want someone to speak up and save the person you love.
Depression is a serious mental illness. But it doesn’t have to be fatal. The AFSP understands this. That’s why I walk with them.
The Vigilant Monkey will be participating in the AFSP’s Out of the Darkness Community Walk in Long Island, at the Old Westbury Gardens, on Sunday, October 4, 2009. For more information about the team’s mission and donation goal, check out http://afsp.donordrive.com/team/vigilantmonkey.
Olga Navia will be walking with friends and family on Sunday in her second Out of the Darkness Community Walk.