[craigster59]

My Mother comitted sucide when I was 15, she had reinjured her leg to the point of not being able to walk and I think she didn't want to have to go through the pain and suffering again. There were other circumstances as well (single parent, a relationship that was ending, feeling as if she was a burden to those around her due to her injury, etc.).

Yes it was a selfish act, but I think in her mind at the time it was for everyones best interest. I don't think I would go so far as to label suicide "cowardice".

The odd thing that haunts me (among other things) is that suicide is "contagious". Our neighbor across the street comitted suicide thru carbon monoxide poisoining 2 months previous from my Mother due to a failed short term marriage. My Mother also used car exhaust (got the idea from the neighbor) and 6 months later, her best friend comitted suicide the same way after her marriage failed. Thankfully it stopped there.

This was in the mid 70's and depression was (as is sometimes now) kept in the closet. At least now more help seems to be available. I think people have to realize there shouldn't be a stigma attached, it's a real disease with terrible consequences if left untreated.