Suicide is something so thoroughly misunderstood by society that we often project our fears and pain on those who take that route instead of giving grace to someone in such pain that they make that decision.
I don't believe suicide is ever the best answer, but I do think many of us fail to understand the fear and heartbreak and sheer pain that brings an individual to that point.
We often focus on rationalizing the anger that comes out of our own pain instead of trying to understand--or at least accept--theirs.
I've had suicidal ideation for much of my adult life, something that results from my depression and PTSD, and honestly, I can't begin to ask someone to get what it feels like in those moments of utter despair. In fact, it seems unfair to demand someone understand it.
The best way I've ever seen it explained is to pretend you're on the top floor of a tall building, and a fire raging on your level prevents you from escaping down the stairs. So, you stand with your head poked out the window as the fire moves toward you, constantly questioning if taking the jump that will most surely result in death is a worthy alternative to burning alive.
Of course, those on the ground can't understand this fear. They're looking up at you, wondering why you just don't throw a jacket over your head and run to the stairs, taking your chances. Suffer some burns, risk death, but you got a chance, right? Maybe, maybe not.
Is it better to burn alive or get the quicker death of jumping? That's a question no person should ever have to answer.
It's unfair to judge folks who commit suicide because you simply can't understand that kind of mindset until you're in it.
But you can provide safety and love, as best as one can, to those going through a dark time. You can be a source of love and understanding.
Anyway, here are some national suicide hotlines. Feel free to share them where needed:
1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
1-800-273-TALK (8255)