Posted by Jackie M. on August 17, 1998 at 12:56:22:
In Reply to: My mother is having suicidal thoughts...Help! posted by Cassandra on August 17, 1998 at 00:33:16:
Dear Cassandra,
As a mother of two who has also contemplated suicide more than once, I would have to say that your mom has one very important element to bolster her strength....YOU!
At those moments when I feel I can't bare anymore pain and entertain thoughts of suicide, two things keep me from doing so (well, actually three things, now that I've found this place)
One is hope. (maybe mixed with a healthy dose of greed). I keep thinking that I'd love to find out what it's like to live life without pain or fear of pain. I want to feel that so badly, that it keeps me from ending my life. The other is my sister and my son, who are the only people in my family who UNDERSTAND and ALLOW me to suffer without guilt. That is SO important, because in my opinion, almost as excrutiating as the pain, is the guilt and shame which results from those who do not understand. If my daughter, husband, in-laws and friends believed this or understood it, I would find it so much easier to go on. To me, there is nothing more demoralizing than to have these people think of me as a wimp who could not endure a simple headache. It seems to me that you have accepted your mom's pain and it's severity. That has to be of some comfort to her. If my daughter were to say to me, "Mom, I see how much pain you are in...I wish I could help, but even if I can't I still love you anyway..." it would mean so much. If your mom knows she has your support and understanding, that has to be of some help to her during the rough times. Also, has she ever visited this place. I have found it to be my greatest means of of support.
All my best to you and your mom.