Suicide is the tragic conclusion of a long chain of events that shake us down to the very foundations of our being. Each of these events leaves their mark, a sign of wear and tear.
Recovering takes time. But more importantly, it takes a better way of living life to bear the impact. Stress accumulates if you don’t act. Tending to your internal garden is important.
What activities allow for you to air things out? For some, writing is a form of self-therapy. For others it’s sports and exercise. Or it could be meeting with friends, who become confidants.
When the scars are deep it’s important to not hesitate to seek professional help. There’s no shame in asking for the aid of a professional in order to get through a difficult period.
There is always mourning involved when someone you are close to commits suicide. But remember: sooner or later those close to us will die. One day we all lose a job or choose to retire. Our bodies naturally wear out. Some activities become impossible as the years go by.
It’s up to all of us to regularly carry out an internal spring cleaning. Weed your garden.
First seen in: Reflet de Société magazine, Vol. 27, no. 1, printemps 2019, page 4.
Suicide Prevention Hotlines:
Québec: 1-866-APPELLE (277-3553). CLSCs can also help you.
Canada: Canada Suicide Prevention Service 833-456-4566
U.S.: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
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