Comments on: Know when to speak up about suicide

By: Jo

Jo — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 03:43:05 +0000

Thanks for raising this very important issue. It also applies to older people although that is rarely mentioned. We do know that older GLBTI people are experiencing depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation at dangerously high rates. We are also seeing disturbing statistics in the male over 85 years of age group for suicide, and undoubtedly that includes GBT men and intersex people. We need to be taking urgent action on this issue as a matter of priority. Dr Jo Harrison

By: Dr George

Dr George — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 00:57:55 +0000

Hey there Anon.
It’s aways sad when I read or hear of people who are struggling. It’s a topic that has been taboo for way too long and I’m thrilled that the RUOK project has been started to help bring it out to the open.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Dr George

By: Isn't

Isn't — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 10:55:40 +0000

As an attempt survivor, I want to say thankyou for posting this. So much stigma surrounds it. I’m still afraid to be honest, it was easier to come out as a lesbian then to admit to my best friend I am a survivor.

By: Anon

Anon — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 07:33:53 +0000

Great article Dr George. I suffer from chronic depression and have made two suicide attempts. It helped a great deal when friends broached the subject and finally opened a gateway for me to talk about my feelings. Just talking about it has helped immensely. Suicide should not be considered a taboo topic. It is a sad reality that people such as myself struggle with such thoughts day to day.