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When Addison returned to school following her suicide attempt, it was evident that everyone, including her friends and teachers, felt uneasy around her. This only exacerbated her discomfort. If you were a close friend or family member of someone like Addison, how would you go about creating a comforting environment for them? Moreover, how should educational institutions and workplaces effectively address and support individuals in similar circumstances?

This is a tough one to answer because I think every case will be unique. I would make myself available to them in any way they wanted. It could be just sitting quietly together, listening to them without an opinion, etc. Depending on the individual, they may want normalcy and nothing more. Educational institutions and workplaces need to be sensitive to the individual needs of the person.

I’m really not sure how to do this. I know from experience that providing comfort is very hard to do, especially since those dealing with attempted suicide don’t really want to discuss what has happened. It’s made even more difficult by the fact that reasons for attempted suicide are complicated. I suppose not treating the with kid gloves is a good solution. Many who have done this feel awkward already. The further you get from the attempt, the easier it gets.

I think we need to meet people where they are at. I am a firm believer in supporting people, but also not getting too involved if I am not too close to them. I would definitely encourage them to seek professional help, and be there as an ear to listen if I was close to them and able to handle it personally. It is very tough to help someone in this situation, but there is help out there.
A big part of it is awareness and openness for any school or work place. Not treating people differently, no judgment etc.

I learnt from the book that the best way is not to judge them or try to be too protective or harsh. The best thing is to make them feel loved and let them know you are with them.

Creating a comforting environment for someone like Addison, who has experienced a suicide attempt, involves open communication and empathy. Letting Addison know that you support her unconditionally and providing a judgment-free space for her to share her feelings is essential. Building a solid support system around her by encouraging professional help and connecting her with support groups can offer a sense of understanding and belonging.

Educational institutions and workplaces should prioritize mental health support. Training teachers, staff, and colleagues in mental health awareness and sensitivity can reduce stigma and ensure appropriate responses. Implementing policies promoting mental health resources and regular check-ins can help identify and support individuals in need.

Creating a comforting environment for someone like Addison requires empathy, open communication, and a robust support system. Encouraging professional help and connecting with support groups can provide understanding and belonging. Educational institutions and workplaces should prioritize mental health support through training and policies. By fostering empathy and providing resources, we can create a more supportive and compassionate environment for individuals facing mental health challenges.

Nancy004 wrote: ↑03 Jul 2023, 02:09 When Addison returned to school following her suicide attempt, it was evident that everyone, including her friends and teachers, felt uneasy around her. This only exacerbated her discomfort. If you were a close friend or family member of someone like Addison, how would you go about creating a comforting environment for them? Moreover, how should educational institutions and workplaces effectively address and support individuals in similar circumstances?

This is a very pertinent question. Lately, mental health and wellness are gaining enhanced attention. And one related area of serious concern is suicide. There is an increasing need of awareness that people who attempt suicide are undergoing tremendous emotional pain and helplessness about it, that they choose to end the pain by ending their lives. Thus, as a family or a friend of someone like Addison, I would make myself available and I would communicate that I'm there should the person need to talk about anything. I would make myself accessible, and keen on listening, without giving any advice. Educational institutions and workplaces should have excellent and updated mental health services in place and should invest in sensitizing everyone about the related concerns, acceptance of the person, empathy and compassion for them.

Is it possible to create a comforting environment for someone who has attempted suicide? In theory, you'd of course want to make every effort to make them feel loved - but did they not feel loved before? Maybe that would remedy the attempts from those who lacked love, but surely many attempts come from something deeper that can't be comforted away. Not every problem can be solved by smothering with love.

I sometimes think of Robin Williams, who gave so much of his gifts to the world. While I don't know details about his personal life, surely he felt love from his family. However, he had personal demons from doing drugs for a few years - that much I do know. Something like that stays with you, especially if your brain has been chemically altered in some way. How can you possibly comfort someone like that? I don't think there is an answer for this.

This is a difficult question to answer because I think it can be solved in various ways. I prefer talking ti the person and letting them know that they have people to count on. I think that's the best solution to the problem.

I have never been around someone who attempted to commit suicide. But if I were to give support to one, I would make myself readily available to them. I would always get them food and also give them words of encouragement.

I'm glad you asked this question because I honestly would have no idea how to respond! The comments have been very insightful for me. I am someone who has never struggled with depression and as such I don't feel well equipped to comfort those who are in the thick of it - which is one reason I wanted to pick this book up. I would love to feel more confident in my ability to be the best support I can be for anyone in my life that feels this way.

Thanks everyone for your thoughts!

I believe that the best thing that one can do is to let the person know that they don't have to discuss anything that makes them unconfortable, but to ensure that they know that you always have an open ear in case they want to talk. You want to create a space where they feel okay to express themselves so they don't ever feel the need to take drastic measures again.

My older brother is a practical example for me. I go all out to show love and support, I believe these people felt all alone in the first place and it led to the incident. Therefore I make them see how intentional my love and care to them is.

Well this could be a difficult task but then the greatest comfort is love. You need to tell them the need why they should love themselves and also others. I don't think anyone can harm himself when he genuinely has self love.

When I am a friend of someone who attempted suicide, I'll sit beside my friend and empathetically listen. Motivate my friend to go on in life because life is beautiful and worth celebrating. I will support my disturbed friend emotionally.