Suicide – it’s the taboo topic of Australian society. It’s rarely discussed openly, and its coverage in our media is limited. Being the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15-29 it leads one to question; why do we avoid the open discussion of suicide?
According to the Australian Institute of Criminology, suicide takes the lives of six Australians each day. Another 180 attempts of suicide are made in that same day. Suicide is also more likely to claim the life of a young male than a female. We have no hesitation in discussing homicide openly, so why is there a stigma attached to suicide?
In August 2011, the Australian Press Council called for a wider coverage of suicide in the media in attempt of bringing awareness to an issue that has previously been unspoken. Since, the number of reports in the media has increased – but are we really doing such an important issue justice?
Psychological explanations for suicide are depression and aggression, while a sociological explanation suggests that suicide is the product of the relationship between an individual and society. But is it ever really that simple?
The social stigma associated with suicide combined with society’s lack of awareness is what is preventing the rate of suicide from decreasing. Yes, over the past few years rates of suicide have declined – but awareness and prevention isn’t where it should be.
Whether we want to admit it or not, the stigma suggests that those experiencing suicidal tendencies are sinful, weak, selfish or crazy. With stigmas like this attached, it is not surprising that the rate of suicide is where it is.
Lewis Cooper is a clinician with Melbourne’s Out Reach program available through the Melbourne Clinic – a rehabilitation centre for those who suffer from a mental illness. A registered nurse with postgraduate qualifications in psychiatric health nursing, Lewis has worked with patients experiencing suicidal tendencies in both the public and private sector.
Out Reach clinicians go out and work amongst communities at the referral of psychiatrists – a job that Lewis describes as exceptionally rewarding.
Upon discussion of society’s attitudes towards suicide, Lewis acknowledges that many view suicide as a violation of moral and divine laws – but asserts that nobody should be judged.
“Suicide has always been a part of society – whether we acknowledge it or ignore it.”
“You don’t know what somebody is thinking or feeling – you can’t walk in anyone else’s shoes. People experiencing suicidal tendencies are often viewed as weak and gutless, but really, we have no right to judge. Sometimes people just need to hit rock bottom to move on.”
As a means of prevention, Lewis believes awareness is the best method of prevention.
“We need to encourage people to make contact for help – picking up the phone is the first step to getting help.”
“Organisations like Beyond Blue are excellent initiatives offering help, and the media have proven themselves as a great way to get the contact numbers for these organisations across to the public.”
Ben is a 22-year-old University student in Melbourne who made the attempt of taking his own life in November 2011. After his attempt of suicide, Ben spent some time in the Melbourne Clinic and continued to liaise with a councillor through the Out Reach program. He has since been rehabilitated, and sheds an insiders light on the issue that is so controversial.
“Regardless of what people say – there is definitely a social stigma upon the discussion of suicide. People look down upon you and make assumptions on weaknesses in your personality and what led you to do it.”
“This stigma isn’t just amongst members of society but also medical professionals. I remember waking up in hospital after my attempt and having to speak to a psychiatrist assigned by the hospital. This particular psychiatrist made comments about me craving the spotlight and wanting to be the centre of attention. I was so embarrassed and he just made it worse.”
“After that, I was forced to see another psychiatrist who wouldn’t listen to what I was saying and would jump to conclusions again about my thought process leading up to the attempt. This isn’t to say that all professionals are bad – but some definitely enforce the negative, unhelpful attitudes towards suicide.”
“People need to listen to what someone has to say and discuss the issue openly. This is the only way to prevent suicide.”
“I know it’s not the answer now,” Ben explains. “But at the time you just don’t know who to turn to or how to bring your feelings up. This is exactly why it needs to be discussed more openly.”
Reflecting on his past experiences, Ben assures me that he now sees the error in his ways.
“Suicide is the easy way out – a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Those feeling vulnerable need to know that there is help out there.”
Anybody experiencing suicidal thoughts or contemplating suicide is encouraged to phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or seek online chat crisis support at www.lifeline.org.au.
Image credit: Kathryn Sprigg
