Suicide and the request to 'speak up'

Most resources for those struggling with thoughts of suicide demand a person identify and convey their internal state – this is a problem. Long-term research demonstrates those experiencing suicidal thoughts are often disassociated with their state, and the desire to express their mental reality, lacking.

For those who are self-aware, social stigma frequently hinders seeking treatment. And contemporary methods by which we attempt to circumvent self-destructive behaviors – from addiction to physical self-harm – require an intentional, external effort by the individual. It's no wonder so few individuals engage healthcare resources.

Many things must change in our current approach to addressing mental health, one of the most pressing being the call to ‘speak up’.

We must develop publicly available programs that do not place the responsibility of expression on the shoulders of individuals already struggling to exist, and instead accept that our collective perspective on mental health and the treatment of mental disorders and diseases must change if we are to prevent those in need from making the immutable decision to end their lives.