173:, and contemporary philosophers and authors as well as a variety of Buddhist thinkers. Martin compares suicidality to alcoholism or other addictions, arguing that thinking about suicide may be addictive in and of itself. Martin further explores his own reasons for attempting suicide and reconciles these with his new motivations to continue living. These include being there for his five children as well as the Buddhist principle of being present in the moment, without distressing about the past or the future. Martin also explains his belief to keep living, based in
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building and his father's own alcoholism and mental health struggles. This culminated in Martin's first attempted suicide, at six years old, when he rode his tricycle in front of a bus. Martin explores the possible motivations people may have with regards to attempting or completing suicide, drawing on analysis regarding the subject from philosophers such as
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is a riveting and inspiring read for anyone who has had to keep company with the chthonic feeling that the breath of life is a curse. Martin is one of the few members of the
Socratic guild who is also a masterful writer of fiction. His knack for descriptions enables him to bring abstract concepts
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In the last chapter, the book explains practical ways to avoid suicidal impulses or suicide attempts including partaking in regular exercise including walking outdoors, maintaining family connections, abstaining from alcohol and drugs. And the most important prevention to avoid suicide, as Martin
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The memoir spans Martin's turbulent life from childhood to present day, detailing his struggles with alcoholism, depression and ten suicide attempts. Martin details his distressing childhood, including his parents' divorce when he was five years old, the death of his step-sibling who fell from a
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suggests, is not to have a gun in the house. The appendix includes interviews with contemporary authors and thinkers, including
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including his multiple suicide attempts throughout his life. The book was a finalist for the 2023
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How Not to Kill
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