Children of suicide victims more likely to kill themselves

CHILDREN in families where there has been a suicide have a higher than average rate of killing themselves, a conference heard yesterday.

Speaking at the Family Life Services seminar in Wexford, Sr Kathleen Maguire said the reason for this phenomenon is not because the tendency for suicide is biologically inherited but because many children can grow up in a heritage of guilt, anger and a sense of worthlessness.

“These negative emotions need to be addressed. Don’t hide yourself in adult secrecy. Give the children clear, correct facts about a suicide in a compassionate and comprehensive manner and be open, answer questions again and again,” she said.