Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (Mar 15/02) - It's not uncommon for some people to be apprehensive when suicide is discussed in their community.

Talking stick in hand, Terry Garchinski uses a rope to explain the concept of his life path, which is influenced by his decisions. - Derek Neary/NNSL photo

But ignoring the problem could result in tragedy.

"If you want to prevent it, talk about it," advised Terry Garchinski, one of two workshop facilitators from Yellowknife who visited Fort Simpson last week. Students from grades 7 through 12 had the option to attend the seminar. Those who did participate -- approximately 50 students over three separate workshops -- sat in a circle and passed around a traditional "talking stick." The students introduced themselves and related personal stories and experiences pertaining to suicide.

Garchinski and his co-worker, Greg Krivda, who both have experience counselling high-risk youth, explained that some people come to see suicide as a way to end emotional pain, but it's a poor decision.

"All of us have the power to end our life and all of us have the power to choose life," Garchinski said. "It's a terrible choice to end one's life."

Because suicide is devastating to friends and family members, it's important to bring survivors together afterwards to talk and console each other, he said.

"If you don't talk about it, sometimes that loss and pain causes another person to commit suicide," said Garchinski.

It's important to remind relatives that they had the power to love their deceased relative, the power to teach him values, respect and provide a safe home -- but their power was not unlimited.

"You never made that decision (to commit suicide). You don't have to feel guilty or ashamed," Garchinski tells family members.

Warning signs

Those who are suicidal may be depressed; may isolate themselves, withdrawing from activities; increase their use of drugs and alcohol and engage in other reckless behaviour; and may practise self-mutilation, such as cutting themselves. They might form a plan of how they will execute themselves, and may acquire a weapon, Garchinski said.

However, there are people who give no indication whatsoever, he added.

"Sometimes there are no signs that you can see. (It's) a complete surprise," he said.

Students were advised to seek intervention from a teacher or counsellor if someone they know is suicidal, but advised not to leave them alone in their weakest moments. Making the person feel safe, reminding the person of his or her qualities and validating their power to make alternative choices is also worthwhile.

Simply providing a listening ear is often helpful, according to Garchinski. If a particular traumatic event has spurred thoughts of suicide, he recommended walking step-by-step through the person's thoughts, feelings and reactions.

"By walking through this process it helps people bring down the mountain, and they don't feel so powerless any more," he said.