What possibly can I say about Robert Enke's decision to kill himself today? It's terribly sad, of course, and tragic for those in his immediate family. I can only imagine how Germans must feel.
The terrible symbolism of the suicide happening on Remembrance Day somehow speaks to me, however. At the risk of sounding cold, it's possible that some good could come out of his act, if only people try hard enough to find it.
On 11/11 we pause to remember the wastefulness of war and to reflect of ways to prevent it. Perhaps the timing of Enke's terrible decision can remind us of the importance to take time to remember the wastefulness of suicide and to reflect of ways to prevent it too.
I've worked in the mental health field -- I was a front line worker at Lutherwood-CODA's open custody youth facility for about 18-months about a decade ago. I have an understanding of the paralysing impact of mental illness. My other half is a psychologist. Preventing suicide is, sadly, part of her day to day work (thankfully she's has yet to fail in that task, but knows that it's only a matter of time).
It's a topic that most try to avoid. If it's brought up at all it's either to be judgmental of it (how selfish of them to...) or in hushed tones (did you hear that...). It's rarely spoken about frankly.
That's a shame because if it was talked about in the open a little more then maybe those that are thinking about it would be more willing to seek the help they so badly need.
It's only when a high profile person kills themselves that it's even reported. If an average person jumps in front of a train he media stays away -- we're taught to in j-school. I've never understood the logic. Maybe if more people understood how common it is then more attention would be provided to the mental health field. Then, maybe, there would be a few fewer suicides.
So, when we are talking about Enke today we should not mince words. He killed himself. It was horrible, I'm sure.
And it didn't have to happen. It never does.
3 comments:
You make some nice points Duane, I agree people need to talk more about the issue.
But I stop short of saying it never has to happen.
Everyone is different and that's not really for me to decide. In some cultures suicide is acceptable to the point of being honoured.
It is indeed a sad day and the suicide of Robert Enke just added to the already sad day. His loss has left many gasping for breath and come to terms with his loss. May God bless his family and near and dear one to come out strong.
All I know is to be a "pro" in any discipline, especially an athlete, an incredible amount of sacrifice and dedication is needed.
When I saw the presser of Oliver Bierhoff and he wept, I couldn't help but cry as well, I guess because it seems like such a waste and sad that Enke wasn't able to get the help he and his family deserved, for whatever reason.
Very sad, RIP Robert.
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