The Big ‘S’

We've all heard about the profound impact suicide has on the family members or loved ones of someone who has attempted it, and how it can be deeply traumatic for those around them. We're familiar with the range of emotions loved ones may experience, from anger to worry to regret. But have we ever stopped to consider how the individual who attempted suicide is feeling?

Conversations about suicide, let alone attempts, are scarce in our society. In Western communities, there's still a greater likelihood of being met with empathy compared to South Asian communities.

In South Asian culture, a suicide attempt is often treated as a shameful, closely guarded secret—a lifelong burden to bear. It's rarely discussed openly, and the term "suicide" may not even be used. Instead, it's seen as a reflection of personal weakness, with little consideration given to underlying mental health issues, even if the person was receiving treatment.

Individuals who attempt suicide can experience a whirlwind of emotions, many of which are difficult to comprehend immediately after the incident. They may feel guilty, angry, scared, uncertain, anxious, embarrassed, or even relieved. The event itself can be extremely traumatic, leading to difficulties in recalling details, feelings of numbness, flashbacks, or an exacerbation of depressive symptoms in the days that follow.

Unfortunately, these experiences are often kept hidden rather than shared with others. Suicide remains criminalized in various parts of the world, and from a religious perspective, it's often seen as an unforgivable sin. While society may recognize suicide as a tragic outcome, individuals who have attempted it often face stigma.

Perhaps most ironically, in South Asian communities, it's often the family members or loved ones who struggle to understand the reasons behind the attempt, even after explanations are given. They may continue to view it as a personal failing rather than recognizing it as a consequence of mental illness or distress.

Questions remain.

Maslama 

@maslama_innerilluminations 

References 

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/co ping-after-a-suicide-attempt/ 

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/suicide-prevention/healing-after-a-suicide-atte mpt.htm