It’s time to talk about what everyone is afraid to say out loud.
Suicide is still one of the biggest taboos in our society. We prefer to whisper the word, hide the phenomenon, or simply look away and hope it will pass. But this silence comes at a heavy price — human lives.
Many people believe the myth that “if someone is determined to take their own life, nothing can stop them,” but the reality is the opposite:
Suicide ideation is not a desire to die; it is a desire to end unbearable emotional pain. Most people who are at risk experience ambivalence — part of them wants to give up, while another part still hopes that someone will reach out and help.
Meir Charash, who lost his son Ariel of blessed memory nine years ago, volunteers with the B’Shvil HaHaim NGO and has been working ever since to change this perception and save lives.
*Raising awareness and expanding open conversation can save lives.
*When we learn to recognize warning signs,
* When we learn how to listen and,
* When we dare to ask the direct question:
“Are you thinking about harming yourself? We are not “putting ideas into someone’s head” — we are opening a door to hope where everything feels closed.
Knowledge is power.
Responsible, open, and informed dialogue is the only way to reduce suicide.
We talk.
We learn.
We save lives.