Can't sleep.
Dad didn't answer his phone yesterday morning.
My sister decided to go round found him slumped in his chair unconscious.
Rung an ambulance and performed CPR whilst waiting for arrival.
He's taken around 6 to 8 slow release morphine tablets possibly with some whisky.
No suicide note but also large kitchen knife present by his side.
They've given him antidote and are discussing whether to put him in indecuded coma until overdose wears off.
If they don't do this they expect him to wake around Monday.
Depending on how long ago he took overdose depends on if he has done permanent damage to himself.
He was diagnosed with cancer of the spine in February which is inoperable due to its location.
He has refused a stoma or proton beam therapy and was given an approximate 1 to 2 years to live without treatment.
I am shell-shocked by his suicide attempt and I think couldn't fully register it until a few hours ago.
I just don't have words...
Hi NT1,
It’s Megan here from Macmillan’s Online Community team. I saw your post and wanted to offer my support.
I am so sorry to hear about your dad and what has happened recently. When a loved one attempts suicide, it understandably causes a range of emotions for those who care about them. I am sure this is still a sensitive time for you as a family, and I hope the team at the hospital is being supportive and discussing what support is available.
While you’re in the hospital, your dad’s mental health needs should be assessed by a healthcare professional. Some Accident & Emergency (A&E) departments have a liaison psychiatry team that provides specialised mental health care. You can ask to see them if you have not spoken to them already. There is more information about what support to expect whilst in hospital on this page.
I’d also like to share the following information to help you access support.
The charity MIND has a support line which you can call on 0300 123 3393 or text 86463 for mental health support. They also have some really useful information about how to support someone after a suicide attempt. It has guidance about how to look after yourself and understand the range of emotions you will be feeling. I’ll link to the page here.
The Macmillan Support Line has Cancer Support Advisors you can speak to when you need emotional support, and the Nurses if you have questions about your dad’s cancer. When you need a listening ear, please do call 0808 808 00 00 from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. If you’d prefer to not call, you can email or use live webchat during the opening hours.
I do hope the above information can be helpful to you and your family just now, and please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you need additional support information and help. You can email Community@macmillan.org.uk or send a private message to the Moderator account.
Best wishes,
Megan
Macmillan's Online Community team
