Lira, Sheila Mae O. Nov.

11, 2020

BSA

SUICIDE; PROBLEM OR SOLUTION?

“Anyone desperate enough for suicide should be desperate enough to go to creative extremes to
solve problems; do what they always wanted to do but were afraid to try”- Richard Bach

Suicide is not an issue that can be ignored. It is the third leading cause of death among the youths
today especially during this time of pandemic. Just like other major social issues, this can also be
prevented. Suicide is defined as the act or an instance of taking one’s own life voluntarily and
intentionally. Some person looks at suicide as an act of murder as well. Teenage suicide is not
just an epidemic in our country but worldwide. It affects everyone in society, whether it is
directly or indirectly. Suicide is not only about the loss of life of one individual, it is also a
tragedy for relatives and friends who are left to grieve.

During the quarantine period of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, three
students have died of suicide after reportedly experiencing education-related difficulties.
Discussion on mental health and wellbeing became prevalent as students brought up the
difficulties of transitioning to remote learning amid the pandemic which led some into suicide.
They are bombarded with feelings of hopelessness, fear, isolation, hatred toward themselves and
so much more. The pain they feel is often immeasurable, to a point where they see no other
option than to end their lives. But many people who have attempted suicide will say that they
wanted to live. They really didn’t want to die; the desire to remain with loved ones remained
very strong. They simply didn’t see any other options.

Studies have found that hopelessness is a strong predictor of suicide. People who feel hopeless
may talk about “unbearable” feelings, predict a bleak future, and state that they have nothing to
look forward to. Talking to a friend or family member about their suicidal thoughts and feelings
can be extremely difficult for anyone. But if you’re unsure whether someone is suicidal, the best
way to find out is to ask. You can uplift a person who is suicidal by showing that you care. In
fact, giving a suicidal person the opportunity to express their feelings can provide relief from
loneliness and pent-up negative feelings, and may prevent a suicide attempt.

There’s this quote that said, “Place your hand over your heart, can you feel it? That is called
purpose. You’re alive for a reason so don’t ever give up.” This quote is very timely and should
give others the strength to fight. We all have a purpose. Find yours and conquer it. We must be
strong to face challenges that may come not just for ourselves but for the people that we love.