How far can you let an alcoholic fall until they’ve hit rock bottom? Although circles of wisdom throughout the years have countlessly told people to stop helping their loved ones and friends who suffer from alcoholism, we have to remember that these victims have incredibly weak minds. So, what happens when their version of rock bottom translates into suicide? The last thing people want to do is bury a loved one who they could have helped, but, then again, what were they supposed to do in the first place? Let’s take a closer look at the stigmas surrounding alcoholism and suicide.
A Long Time Coming
Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding suicide attempts and alcoholism has stemmed far back into the earliest reaches of human culture. In 360 B.C., the Greek philosopher Plato describes how people who commit suicide will be buried alone, in areas of land that are uncultivated and long forgotten. Jumping forward a few thousand years to the present day, you will see how many Judeo-Christian religions will also view suicide as a crime of the soul and (in some belief systems) the greatest sin a person can commit in life and after life. Even people who experience suicidal thoughts are stigmatized as immoral people.
The Relationship between Alcoholism and Suicide
Research has indicated that people who suffer from alcohol dependence are 60 to 120 times more likely to take their lives than people who do not drink. In fact, in many suicide cases, the victims had extremely high blood-alcohol content (BAC) measurements. In roughly 30% of attempted suicides, alcohol is almost always a factor.
While treatment programs work wonders for people suffering from suicidal thoughts, this process does not always prove to be effective, though. In the case of men and women who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), quitting alcohol use is the equivalent of cutting off a limb and will only boost the terrible side effects of depression. So, how far do we let people go before rock bottom becomes suicide?
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Sometimes, we need to understand that the best option for an alcoholic is to let them fall and make them realize they are making a huge mistake in their lives. However, as we have seen, the issue of suicide in severe cases will always loom on the horizon. Needless to say, you need to make your better judgement when you are attempting to help your loved one heal, and, if they have demonstrated suicidal behavior, you need to take drastic action to save them. Suicide is an impulsive act. Do not let it be the last option for you or a loved one.
If you are suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or alcohol abuse or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
