September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day, a time to commit to global action and dialogue aimed at preventing suicides. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 720,000 people die by suicide each year, making it the third leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds.
Various factors can lead to suicidal thoughts, including financial difficulties, relationship issues, or chronic pain. Vulnerable groups such as refugees, migrants, indigenous peoples, and LGBTQ+ individuals are particularly at risk due to experiences of discrimination and marginalization.
A crucial step in suicide prevention is normalizing conversations about mental health. Many people who consider suicide are struggling with mental health issues, but stigma and taboos often prevent them from seeking help.
This stigma is particularly pronounced among men, who may feel pressured to appear strong and self-reliant, leading to lower rates of seeking support compared to women, who often have more robust social support networks.
To normalise discussions about mental health, we need a collective effort. Health insurance companies should include mental health coverage in their plans and provide incentives to mental health professionals to practice in underserved areas. Schools should incorporate mental health education into their curriculums and create supportive student environments. Teachers should be vigilant about bullying and discriminatory behaviour, which can contribute to suicidal thoughts.
As individuals, we can contribute by avoiding derogatory remarks and being mindful of warning signs that someone may be in distress. These signs can include:
- Talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden
- Expressing feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, or extreme sadness
- Engaging in risky behaviours or withdrawing from friends
- Exhibiting significant changes in behaviour or mood
Intervening and helping people during such times can prove to be life-saving and you would find out that this was the moment they were waiting for. We can also educate ourselves by reading accounts and listening to experts on this topic.
Child Help Foundation is actively working to raise awareness and prevent suicides through educational sessions in schools across India. If you are interested in organizing a session, please reach out to us.
Thank you for reading. Please share this information with friends and family to help foster a supportive community and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.