Suicide was once treated as a crime during the late 19th century if a person got caught trying to kill himself he was jailed and punished by hanging

Suicide: Once Treated as a Crime

In the late 19th century, attitudes towards suicide were drastically different from what they are today. During this period, attempting to take one’s own life was not only seen as a desperate act, but also as a criminal offense. It seems unimaginable now, but back then, if a person was caught trying to end their own life, they could face imprisonment or even be punished by hanging.

This harsh treatment of individuals struggling with mental health issues highlights the societal ignorance and lack of understanding surrounding suicide during the Victorian era. Rather than addressing the underlying causes of suicide, the focus was on punishment and deterrence. The prevailing belief was that harsh consequences would discourage others from contemplating the act.

While this approach may have been well-intentioned, it failed to acknowledge mental health as a significant factor in suicidal behavior. It is crucial to recognize that suicide often stems from deep emotional pain, depression, or other mental illnesses. By treating suicide as a crime, society was inadvertently further stigmatizing those who needed help the most.

One possible reason behind the criminalization of suicide during this era could be traced back to religious beliefs. Many religions considered suicide a sin, and therefore, it was seen as an offense against the laws of God. The fear of eternal damnation perhaps fueled the idea of punishment, rather than understanding and compassion.

Fortunately, over time, our understanding of mental health and suicide has evolved significantly. We now recognize the importance of providing support, resources, and empathy to those struggling with suicidal thoughts. Instead of viewing suicide as a crime, we seek to address the underlying causes, raise awareness, and promote mental well-being.

In conclusion, it is disheartening to acknowledge the dark period when suicide was treated as a crime. During the late 19th century, people caught attempting suicide were often incarcerated or even sentenced to death by hanging. This punitive approach failed to address the root causes of suicidal behavior, and it only further stigmatized those who needed support the most. Thankfully, as our understanding of mental health has deepened, society has shifted towards providing compassion, empathy, and appropriate mental health care for individuals facing such struggles.

(Source: BBC)