c
However, when one has reached that terminal point when things do not fall the way he wishes—one unlucky turn to the next and many more—this innate hope and optimism diminishes.

Ultimately, he becomes hapless and drowns in desperation which, if not remedied straight off, can cause the person to commit suicide.

Suicide, for me, is that kind of death where the doer does not wish to continue in the afterlife, if ever there really is one.

I’ve never considered suicide, because life’s already too short and there are just infinite things to learn, relearn and realize. The key here, I guess, is to just carry on with life—living by forgetting and forgiving, living and reliving.” —Jose, 20, Ateneo de Manila University

“Suicide never really became an option for me growing up. Probably because I grew up in a loving family that makes it a point to explain to me the stuff I see on TV. Sadly, not everyone is as privileged.”  —Elora, 20, De La Salle University

“I feel that suicide results from a feeling of complete helplessness and hopelessness. Those who contemplate or commit suicide aren’t looking for a way out; rather they see no solutions to the trials they face. I believe most of them feel alone and are unaware of how much being gone would affect the lives of the people who love them.

People like to assume that those who threaten to commit suicide are just looking for attention, but I don’t believe that. I believe that when they voice their intentions, they want to know if there is a solution to the situation that looks bleak to them.

I’ve never contemplated suicide because I think of how much it would break the hearts of people I leave behind, but I do understand that thoughts of suicide should be addressed at every instance and never ignored because they are obvious signs of a deeper problem.”—Irisa, 22, University of Santo Tomas

“Suicide is not the way to escape or solve problems. No, it has never crossed my mind. I prefer to live, because I have my family and friends who care about me.” —Kei, 23

“I have really never thought of suicide, because I think of my loved ones. I don’t want my parents to be sad because they don’t have the financial budget to support my death.

I know it may sound crazy, but it is true. I never want to end my life because it is God-given. I believe that anything from God should be respected. I am the master of my own fate and the captain of my soul, but I believe the One who has given me life has the duty to end it.”—Czar, 15

“For me, it’s nonsense. They should love their lives. I think they just commit suicide because they just want to escape their current situation. I’ve never thought of committing suicide.”—Sandra, 16

“Never thought of it even once. It’s a great sin against my Maker.”—Emeline, 15

“I do not agree with the thought of committing suicide because this wouldn’t solve any problem I have, but will actually add problems to those I love. I’d rather face my problems than try to escape them. Suicide, I think, is a form of cowardice.” —Isabella, 22