AN IRISH GP, author and mental health advocate revealed a new theory which he believes could help identify people who are in danger of taking their own lives.
Dr Harry Barry said his Suicide Cocoon theory was developed after talking to bereaved family members, as well as survivors who have taken an in-depth look back at the period before the attempt. In doing this they struggle to explain how they behaved, explained Barry.
“The almost universal refrain from many family members bereaved by suicide is how the person in distress seemed so normal before the event,” he told an audience at the Conference at Croke Park yesterday morning.
“Before entering the Cocoon, people may demonstrate worsening of physical symptoms such as increasing fatigue, difficulty concentrating and sleeping, agitation and restlessness, and increasing withdrawal from those close to them.
“However, when in the Cocoon they seem to become much calmer, their mood may even improve and previous distresses may seem to have settled down…Some may make special efforts to visit family members or friends or even give away objects to good friends or close family members.”
Barry said that often loved ones may feel that any previous issues with mood and anxiety have actually been left behind or removed. The doctor said that by using his Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) model, healthcare workers will be able to identify those at risk earlier – even before they hit the Cocoon.
“It is my belief that if we don’t understand the signs of the Cocoon, we are going to struggle to reach the person in difficulty,” he continued. “I feel that this understanding may go some way towards helping many families come to terms with their grief.”
Barry said he has explored the mystery of suicide by looking at the mental health issues behind it, as well as the neurobiology of suicide. He said, however, that he has learned most by listening to those who have been survivors of very serious attempts, and by helping countless others suffering from depression.
The new theory was welcomed by Console which says that fresh ideas are always required and welcomed.
“We need a new understanding of the risk factors associated with suicide,” said Paul Kelly, CEO of Console.
Figures in June 2012 revealed that there were 552 suicides recorded in 2009 with the highest rates seen among young men. A pilot study carried out by the National Suicide Research Foundation in Ireland has found a link between the economic downturn and suicide rates in Ireland.
More recent figures have also shown that there has been a 16 per cent increase in the rate of suicide among Irish teens in the past 20 years.
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