Breaking the Silence: Suicide and Mental Health
We have all heard the word 'suicide,' and sadly, many of us may also know individuals who have either lost their lives to suicide or have faced difficult and distressing thoughts of suicide, even acting on them.
Suicide is a broad term, as it implies different aspects related to ending one's life, including thoughts, actions, and the outcome.
As a psychologist, I'm writing this blog to raise awareness on suicide and starting with a crucial point: Instead of saying 'committed suicide,' say 'died by suicide.'
This change in wording is important because it highlights that suicide is not a crime, as the term 'committed' may suggest.
This is essential because the words we use affect the way we think and how we see the world around us.
Moreover, many people might attribute suicide to attention seeking or weakness in one’s personality or ways of thinking- this is definitely inaccurate.
So, what is suicide?
Suicide is a multifaceted health event influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and behavioral factors.
In certain research studies, it has been found that nearly 90% of individuals who die by suicide had a diagnosable mental health condition when they passed away, such as severe depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Suicide is also a global issue, a significant concern for public health worldwide, with roughly 800,000 suicides happening each year across the globe!
Contrary to common misconceptions, it's not a sign of weakness or selfishness but rather a reflection of profound suffering.
It is important to know that timely interventions and support can PREVENT suicide, and help people who are struggling.
If you think someone you know is having a tough time and wanting to end their life, you can help them in many ways.
- Let them know you care
Be open with the person in front of you and talk to them about it.
Tell them what you have noticed that they are struggling and that it makes you worried. Mention explicitly why you are concerned – like any warning signs you’ve noticed.
This shows that you care, and that you are there to help.
2. Ask if they are thinking about suicide
Pose the question straight to them, saying, ‘Are you thinking about suicide?’.
Even though it might seem uncomfortable, asking directly encourages an open and honest response.
Keep in mind that discussing suicide won't make a person more likely to take their own life or give them the idea to do so.
Instead, it gives them a chance to express how they're truly feeling.
3. Listen without judgment
Take the time to understand what has brought them to this point.
You can say: ‘That sounds very challenging’, to show that you are attentively listening and trying to see things from their perspective.
Avoid immediately diving into problem-solving or attempting to persuade them out of having suicidal thoughts, as this may come across as dismissive.
4. Encourage them to get professional help
Tell them you understand they are in pain, but that there are options other than suicide.
Encourage them to seek help from a trusted mental health professional.
If you have personally suffered from suicidal thoughts, remember that you are not alone.
You can reach out to your beloved ones who will understand. If not, you can always seek professional help by seeing a psychologist or a mental health specialist, or calling the hotline in your region when the pain feels unbearable.
Take home message:
When we talk openly about these topics, we can help more people understand and seek help.
A conversation can be a lifeline for someone in need.
We're social creatures, and we rely on each other for support. So, let's keep talking, reaching out, and being there for one another.
Yours truly,
Dana
Kindness is not just a virtue, it's a way of life.
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