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The Impact of Suicide on Families and Communities.

  How do we react when we hear that someone has committed suicide? For many of us, it’s a moment that freezes time. The shock hits first, forcing us to question ourselves quickly. How could this happen? Why didn’t we see it coming? This is how we react, when we face this harsh reality that someone we knew or within our community felt that their pain was too much to bear. I remember the time when my 12 th board examinations were underway, and in the midst of it all, a girl in my neighborhood-around my age- took her own life just one day before the examination. The news shook me deeply. It was unimaginable that someone facing the same stress and pressure as me could feel so overwhelmed that she saw no other way out. Even, I found it impossible to focus on my exam after hearing the news. My mind kept drifting back to her. Guess what- the day she ended her life, her family had a marriage planned. The contrast was heartbreaking. A day that was supposed to be filled with joy and unlimit
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Suicide and Social media: The Double-edged sword.

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  We are all blessed to born in a generation where we have access to a lot of things that the older generation lacked. With the advancement of technology, the media expanded its reach, becoming a powerful force in shaping our worldviews, lifestyles and even our mental health. Social media, plays a vital role in shaping the narrative on suicide which can affect individuals positively and negatively. Focusing on the brighter side, the rise of digital media has made information about mental health and suicide more accessible. The media educate the public on mental health, warning signs and providing resources for help. Social media allows us to stay in touch with our loved ones, no matter whatever may be the distance. It acts as a buffer against the feeling of isolation and despair, which are often linked to suicidal thoughts. Moreover, social media campaigns such as #MentalHealthAwareness and #YouAreNotAlone, have became powerful tools in spreading awareness. Additionally, the social m
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Inside the mind: How suicidal thoughts develop?

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  “Sometimes even to live is an act of courage.” – Seneca This emphasises that life, with all its struggles and challenges can be incredibly difficult. We feel emotional, mental or physical pain that makes our survival like an exhausting battle. But choosing to continue living despite the desire to escape that pain, becomes an act of bravery. Cultural and Societal expectations It’s true that we are burdened with the fear of rejection or judgement by the society. Societal pressure often forces an individual to make choices that they don’t want to. Peer pressure influences the human behaviour, we are bound to behave in a certain way. When individuals fail to meet these expectations, the resulting shame can drive them towards suicidal thoughts. Trauma and abuse Experiences that traumatize an individual forever such as physical, emotional or sexual abuse. PTSD stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic
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Breaking the silence on suicidal thoughts

How it feels when you pretend being happy around people? You are sitting with a group of people who are enjoying each other’s company. You’re surrounded by joyful people, yet inside, you feel detached, as if no one truly understands or is there for you. The sense of zoning out reflects the emotional disconnect. Well, sometimes it’s okay to feel sad. If a person will always be happy, then no one will value the importance of happiness. But the moment you start developing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it’s crucial to address them seriously. Understanding Suicidal Ideation Suicidal Ideation refers to thoughts of suicide or taking your own life. However, there are two kinds of suicidal ideation: passive and active. Passive suicidal ideation occurs when you wish you were dead or that you could die, but you do not formulate a plan to die by suicide. On the other hand, active suicidal ideation, is not only thinking about it but having the intent to die by suicide, including planning how to
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