Question

Two of the symptoms of major depression, bi-polar disorder, and borderline personality disorder are suicidal thoughts and behavior. For this discussion, we will consider whether an individual has the "right to commit suicide." The right-to-suicide movement has a number of advocates, mostly outside of the mental health profession. Some say that suicide should only be allowed for terminally ill patients with the asstance of a physician. (There is presently a legal battle in Oregon about physician-assisted suicide.) Others place no restrictions, saying that "It's your life. As long as you don't hurt someone else, you have the right to decide when to end it." On the other hand, most mainstream religions oppose suicide as do most medical doctors, psychologists, and psychiatrists. In Texas, if you are suicidal, you can be committed to a psychiatric hospital. Anyone aiding a person's suicide can be charged with a felony.

Answer 1

Here’s my opinion on an individual’s right to commit suicide.

I strongly believe dying is not a solution to a problem, least of all an option. Although many people outside of the mental health profession believe in an individual’s right to commit suicide, I believe death is not a right just like how birth is not a right. Do we choose when we wish to be born? I don’t think even out parents can decide that for us. So who gives us the right to die when we want to? Considering suicide as a solution to escape all the worries in life is mere cowardice. Choosing to live and to conquer your fears is a symbol of a true winner. Instead of focusing on the right-to-die discussion, we should focus more on suicide prevention awareness. I understand life and death are part of an individual’s personal autonomy, but a breach of personal autonomy to save a life is not really a violation.

More than religions, doctors, psychologists, and psychiatrists opposing suicide, it is important for your inner self to oppose suicide. Physician-assisted suicide or voluntary euthanasia is different. It is choosing between death and suffering when there are no other options left to choose. Depression, bi-polar disorder, and borderline personality disorder are all mental disorders that can be treated no matter how grave the condition of a person is. It is important for parents to detect suicidal intentions in adolescents early and provide suitable mental health care to prevent the condition from worsening.

Loss of loved ones is a pain that cannot be healed in a lifetime. Please don’t let people who love you go through it. Everything is replaceable in this world; only life is not. Your life may not perfect, but it sure is precious.