Dear Editor,
Firstly I wish to extend my gratitude to you, for publishing my letter in your Wednesday, January 9 edition (‘There is no excuse for the violence committed against our women’). I’m penning this letter to make a pronouncement on the issue of suicide in our society.
Suicide is often committed out of despair, the cause of which can be attributed to a mental condition such as depression; bipolar disorder; alcoholism; or drug abuse, etc. Stress factors such as financial difficulties or trouble with interpersonal relationships often play a significant role.
The Swiss psychologist Carl Jung once wrote, “We cannot change anything unless we accept it, condemnation does not liberate, it oppresses.” Statistics from the 2003 to 2007 period show that there were 946 reported suicides in Guyana. Officials say ingestions of poisons or pesticides were the method used by most suicide victims.
Hanging accounted for a significant number of deaths. Statistics also show that Guyanese of East Indian descent were the most likely to commit suicide.
Natasha Nazamudeen and Safraz Sattuar who allegedly hanged themselves three weeks ago are classic examples. I wish to extend my condolences to the bereaved families for their loss.
Yours faithfully,
Pandit D Tillack