Suicide: A Permanent Solution to a Temporary Problem
by Kevin Caruso
You have undoubtedly heard the phrase, “Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.”
But is it accurate? Let’s dissect it.
First off, ending your life via suicide is permanent. No question about it. There is no going back – once you are dead, you are dead. You can’t undo anything at that point.
So the word “permanent” is both accurate and VERY powerful.
Now, let’s examine the word “solution.”
The word is clearly NOT accurate. Okay, I understand the gist, but suicide is not a “solution” to anything.
Next, let’s look at the word “temporary.”
Yes, this is VERY accurate indeed. Suicidal feelings are temporary. They may not FEEL like they are temporary, but they are.
And now let’s look at the word “problem.”
The word works. It is a catch-all word that covers a lot of territory. So, yes, it works just fine.
Overall, I like this phrase. Taken as a whole, it represents a good mindset, which is this: Whatever is causing you to be suicidal will assuredly dissipate, so don’t be impetuous and end your life.
But when someone is suicidal, the desire to be dead can be overwhelming. The FEELING is very powerful and inviting.
An inner dialogue may go something like this: “All I need to do is kill myself, and my problems and pain will be over; and I won’t be a burden to other people.”
So what is the better “solution” to this “problem”?
Answer: treatment.
That’s right, treatment.
Actually, first you need to be diagnosed, and then you need to be treated.
The number one reason for suicide is untreated depression, and depression is highly treatable.
But you must ACT. And that can be difficult when you feel horrible, so you simply must FORCE yourself to act. And that means picking up the phone and calling a suicide hotline. No, that is not a panacea, but it is a GREAT first step.
Then you need to see a doctor and get into counseling.
And things WILL get better. I see it happen everyday, over and over. People who have told me that they had nothing to live for and that they MUST die tell me at some later juncture that life is WONDERFUL and that they are glad to be alive.
Huh?
How did that happen?
Treatment.
And I can guarantee you that the same thing will happen to you. So if you are suicidal, get help now.
Always remember that I love you and care for you VERY much.
Take care,
Kevin Caruso
If you or someone you know is suicidal, please go to the Home Page of this website for immediate help.
Thank you.
I love you.
Take care,
Kevin Caruso
