Baraka_Guru

Punk.of.Ages, what you have done is remarkable. Knowing this about you, I have a new-found respect for your character. Actually, I must go so far as to say that you are an inspiration to me. I, too, have had my own challenges--dealing with severe emotional abuse--but I was never so burdened as you. Even so, I have had many yo-yo experiences, and I can relate to having to delve into the strength of mind to overcome it.

I don't think everyone can do this to the same degree. Mental health issues aren't only about behavoural patterns and habits. There are also issues of chemical and otherwise physiological dispositions that cause problems. Sometimes people really should simply be medicated if they have severe issues and there is evidence there is something wrong with their "wiring."

But I agree with you. I don't think those struggling with suicide should be "coddled." That doesn't help anyone. I'm sure there are programs, however, that work towards guiding the patients by empowering them, rather than pushing them into something or catering to their habitual desires.

Do you think there is merit in programs that help empower these people to help themselves? Is that a kind of help you would support?

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Knowing that death is certain and that the time of death is uncertain, what's the most important thing?
—Bhikkhuni Pema Chödrön

Humankind cannot bear very much reality.
—From "Burnt Norton," Four Quartets (1936), T. S. Eliot