Is intent to commit suicide prima facie evidence for a disease of the mind?

[BoyNextDoor]

Yes or no?

 

[2wayroad]

It almost always indicates a deep state of depression where the person who is suffering feels like they have no self worth. There are many reason why a person can get to that point and talking with a qualified professional is a must to get past that point. Some will not talk, even if given the opportunity. It’s the “you can lead a horse to water…” metaphor.

Extreme, long lasting pain or significant illness can lead a person to consider suicide, as can the loss/death of an emotionally significant person.

Anytime someone’s emotional or mental state has sunk to the level that they consider suicide they need professional help. Saying “I just want to die” is not a suicidal statement. If one says they want to kill themselves and have a plan on how to do so, then that should be taken seriously. At that point a person can be taken to get professional help, even by police or EMS.

So, intent (at what level?) to commit suicide isn’t a “disease of the mind”. But depression or despondence is, and it can be treated and managed. Depression can be sudden, scary and temporary or can can be a lifelong weight that gets heavier and heavier until it can no longer be tolerated. Both acute and chronic should be taken seriously.

 

[Rainblow]

Since prima facie is the foundation of your question then yes.

 

[DeluxAuto]

Since prima facie is the foundation of your question then yes.

I'm glad you said that because it was twisting my brain.

 

[JohnEBbad]

Depends. There is suicide by honor too.

 

[stickygirl]

Since prima facie is the foundation of your question then yes.

Agreed.

I suspect the true meaning of 'disease' may be misunderstood and deserves a Google for clarification.

 

[Rainblow]

Agreed.

I suspect the true meaning of 'disease' may be misunderstood and deserves a Google for clarification.

I agree. Suicidal ideation could be situational. Disease implies sickness or problems with bodily functions. Neurochemical imbalances may be considered a "disease" but mental health issues could be related to, for example, grief, ptsd or types of dysmorphia none of which are diseases.

 

[TarnishedPenny]

In my neck of the woods, attempting to commit suicide was once an offence under the Criminal Code. The intent was not to make more trouble for the individual, but to give the cops a legal reason for detaining them and getting them to treatment.

 

[Oshkosh60]

Nope....not an effing disease....but the person is in such a place of pain that ending their life is preferable to continue to live in that dark, dark place. And the sad, sad thing is.....things can change. They can't see that at the time....and yes, they need help and support to sometimes work through it.....but it is not a disease. The key is to reach out and tell others about the pain so that resources and an action plan can be worked out. I have talked to many people who have attempted....and in looking back, most say the same thing....it was if that all happened to someone else. In the rearview mirror they can't even imagine that it was them. But that can be the force of that darkness.....connection and mustering all the internal strength left to reach out is the key.