Suicide
What does suicide have to do with the Internet?
There are many websites on the Internet that deal with suicide and suicidal thoughts. However, the information provided on these sites is often unreliable and could be distressing or damaging. It is important that, should you feel the need to make use of these sites, you only visit ones you know are reliable.
There is no simple explanation for suicidal behaviour. Many different events could cause a young person to feel anxious, hopeless and isolated, and could damage self-esteem. This can lead to suicidal feelings or thoughts. Constant rowing with someone close, exam stress, bullying and abuse are examples of some of the things young people have told Childline about. Specific events such as an unwanted pregnancy, parents divorcing, the death of someone, or being the victim of a violent attack can also lead to depression and suicidal feelings. Or, like adults, a young person may feel deeply unhappy for no obvious reason. Whatever the cause of suicidal feelings, it is essential that the person suffering seeks help and support as soon as possible.
Seeking help
While there are an abundance of websites available devoted to suicide and suicidal feelings, the Internet is not always the best place to turn. Helplines, such as those offered by ChildLine and The Samaritans, offer immediate and confidential help and support from professional counsellors. As well as listening to you and taking you seriously, they will also be able to inform you of where you can go in your area for further help.
Useful websites relating to suicide and suicidal thoughts should direct you to these helplines, or similar helplines where you can find immediate support. Any that do not direct you towards a source of practical help are unlikely to be endorsed by a recognised help group, and as such you should be very wary of their content.
While suicide is a very serious issue it is important to realise that there are many organisations available that can offer professional and confidential advice, both to the sufferer and their friends and family. This is demonstrated by the number of websites and contact numbers listed here. These invaluable resources have helped countless people in the past, and will continue to offer these services to those who require them in the future.
Help/Advice:
Samaritans
UK Tel: 08457 909090 (calls charged at local rates)
ROI Tel: 1850 609090
(calls charged at local rates)
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.uk
Email:jo@samaritans.org.uk
ChildLine
Tel: 0800 1111 (freephone)
(9.30am to 9.30pm Monday to Friday; 9.30am to 8pm Saturday and Sunday)
Website: http://www.childline.org.uk
Email: http://www.childline.org.uk/talk/Pages/Talk.aspx
ChildLine takes children and young people’s problems seriously, giving them a chance to talk in confidence about their concerns, however large or small. ChildLine counsellors can also tell them where to go for more information including local sources of help and advice
