Question

What are some of the social factors that "insulate" against suicide? How do they work to keep people from attempting or committing suicide? Can media that is often blamed as a cause of suicide become a source of suicide prevention?

Answer 1

One of the most important factors that insulate people against suicide is family members and friends. This would mean that when people do not feel valued, accepted and motivated, they might engage in suicide as they would find no purpose in life. People are the product of their environment most specifically, they are the products of people around them. Secondly, accessibility to services that provide timely help to individuals who are caught in difficult situations would prevent them from taking their own lives. When there is enough counselling centers in the country and that they are approachable, people might get help. Thirdly, religious institutions offer solace and comfort to people who lose hope. For long, religion was helping thousands of people to build positive energy and lead a moral life. This would mean if people believe in religion it would prevent them from committing suicide as it is against the religious beliefs. Media is one of the most important elements in shaping people’s attitudes, values and lifestyle thus, they have a moral responsibility in helping people overcome their suicidal thoughts and offer information regarding the help available for them in times of crisis. Although media could only inform, they cannot really work on the field to help those who have suicidal tendencies, however, they could use celebrities in spreading the new against people committing suicide.

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