Suicide is not the answer

Robin Williams' suicide has brought into sharp focus the increasingly common incidents of suicide in the U.S. The common denominator in all suicides is victims' inability to cope with intolerable emotional pain. Most of them had been through incredible numbers of emotional/physical traumas during their early years. They had repressed their painful emotions by "being strong," and moved on with life. Most became unaware of their buried pain. Some had channeled their pain into remarkable creativity.

However, buried painful emotions accumulated in their hidden mind over time. Sometimes new traumatic events, such as a loss, brought up to the surface old pain. Chemical changes in the brain resulting thereof brought on emotional, physical, mental and behavioral symptoms. Some resorted to alcohol, street drugs and other self-destructive activities to alleviate both emotional pain and symptoms resulting thereof.

There came the inevitable "breaking point" when they felt, "I just can't take this pain anymore!" Now they were diagnosed as suffering from a major psychiatric disorder, such as major depression, bipolar disorder and panic disorder ("chemical imbalance.") Many sought to end their misery by attempting suicide. Some succeeded.

Drugs such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers give only temporary relief from some of the psychiatric symptoms. In the long run, however, unless one becomes more self-aware, and savvy in coping with one's inner pain, symptoms would keep getting worse regardless of drugs. One who is at the critical "breaking point" needs a compassionate, empathic and helpful listener, not merely repression-promoting drugs. Suicide is preventable.

K.P.S. KAMATH, Cape Girardeau