Changes in the Role of Men in Modern Society.

The rate of suicide among men in Ireland increased dramatically in the 1990's and it remains at four times the rate of suicide among women. It is difficult to determine why this is the case, we can only speculate on the reasons why.

One possible reason is the change in the role of men and women in society. Women have become more independent minded, more financially independent as they develop their own careers and have a greater sexual and biological sense of freedom than in the past. As a result, the traditional role and image of the man is changing and young men may be very unsure of their role in modern society.

The late Professor Anthony Clarke referred to "masculinity in crisis" in his book 'On Men:Masculinity in Crisis'. I am going to quote some of his work in relation to this issue.

".. I learned very early on what a man does; his work is as important as, even more important than, who he is; that a man is defined in modern capitalistic society in terms of being not doing"

The role of provider is under siege and now the role of father is threatened. The rise in the number of single mothers suggests not merely that men are inadequate as partners and fathers but that they are simply redundant. Women are asserting that they can conceive and rear children on their own. These days, the don't even need men to father children with the development of assisted reproduction such as IVF, surrogacy etc..

The apparent lack of need for men to be providers and fathers begs the question, "What is the role of the man in society?"

Do you think the change in the role of men in modern society is a factor in the high level of male suicides?

Give "LUV" this Christmas and help prevent Suicide

For all of you "The apprentice" buffs, you will be aware that team Platinum won an Apprentice challenge set by SPAR to create a Christmas themed product that would be sold in 470 SPAR stores nationwide, with all proceeds going to the SPAR charity of the year, the 3Ts. The team developed the “Luv Bear”, allowing people around Ireland to communicate their feelings for one another and demonstrate their “love” by way of giving a gift of a “Luv Bear” and at the same time supporting the 3Ts – turn the tide of suicide.


All monies from the product will go towards the new 24 hour suicide prevention line “1life”, a joint venture between The 3ts and Console. 1life is a 24-hour suicide prevention helpline for anyone in suicidal distress. Professional counsellors and volunteers respond to calls seven days a week to support callers in need of help.
 
The  "Luv Bear" is now available in all Spar and Spar Express stores nationwide for just €2.99.
 
So go on and pick up a "Luv Bear" today and share the love!

Some Events coming up

The annual Console Christmas Celebration of Light for those bereaved through Suicide takes place:

When: Sunday 29th of November 2009 at 4pm
Where: St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, Co.Kildare

You are welcome to join Console for a special evening of song, music, poetry and reflection. This evening includes the lighting of candles and a minute silence in the presence of others to commemorate the lives lost.
 
Entry is free , although places are limited.
If you wish to attend, please contact Console directly on 01-6102638 or e-mail paul@console.ie


Pieta House Annual Carol Services will be held on the following dates:

• Leixlip Parish of Our Lady’s Nativity at 8pm Thursday 10th December 2009

• Lucan St Mary’s Parish Church at 7.30pm Thursday 17th December 2009

Refreshments will be served following the services in the local parish centres.

For more information on the Pieta House Carol Services, please contact Pieta House directly:

•  Mario Peelo for Pieta House mob: 086-8393437 or e-mail: mariep@marchmont.com

For the first time, Pieta House will be selling their own Christmas cards to raise funds for their vital work. Check out your local shop and pharmacies or contact Pieta House (01) 6010000

What are the warning signs?

Most people who feel suicidal don't really want to die, they just want their pain to end. With professional help, this pain can be eased, but to a suicidal person, it seems like they can never be cured and the best option for them is to end it all.

There are some warning signs to look out for, which may indicate that someone is having thoughts of suicide.

• Sudden changes in their usual pattern of relating to others
• Withdrawing from family and friends and wanting to be left alone
• Not wanting to be touched
• Loss of humour or unusual change to acting the clown
• Decline in school or other work, disinterest in studies or the future
• Apathy about dress or appearance and self neglect
• Changes that suggest depression or other mental health problems e.g changes in sleep patters, delusions or hallucinations
• Sudden happiness after lengthy periods of depression
• Making final arrangements, such as making a will,giving away prized possessions or organising their funeral
• Marked increase or decrease in weight
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Self harm such as cigarette burns or cutting oneself
• Loss of interest and enjoyment
• Marked tiredness
• Reduced concentration
• Reduced confidence and self-esteem
• Feeling of guilt and unworthiness
• Diminished appetite and libido

what to do?

Here are some ways to be helpful to someone is threathing suicide.

• Show that you really care. Be non-judgemental
• Talk openly about suicide
• Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings
• Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
• Don't act shocked. This will put distance between you.
• Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek Support
• Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glibs of reassurance.
• Take action. Remove any means of suicide available, such as pills.
• Get help from persons or agencies that have experience and training in suicide prevention.

Risk Factors

• People with a mental illness such as depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder have a higher risk of dying by suicide.
• Socio-economic stresses
• Suicide/Violence within the family
• Anxiety about gender and sexuality
• Bullying in the home, school or workplace
• Incarceration in custody
• Bereavement of a family or close friend
• Loss of a job
• Work difficulties
• Financial difficulties
• Binge drinking
• Drug and alcohol abuse
• Accessibility to leathal means
• Poor physical health
• Homelessness

Individuals at Risk

• Young men aged 18-34
• Recent discharge from Psychiatric hospital
• Currently expressing suicidal thoughts
• Previous attempt
• People suffering from depression
• Access to methods of suicide
• Recent relationship break-up
• Loss of Social Support
• The victims of repeat deliberate self-harm and self-harm
• Those suffering alcohol and substance abuse
• Marginalised groups often experience discrimation and can be vulnerable to self-harm.
• Separated men and women
• Unemployed
• People with over borrowing and serious financial problems

Preventing Suicide in Ireland Video.