The 10th of September was International Suicide Prevention Day.
Just reading the word “Suicide” is bad enough. Thinking about it is almost too much to bear.
The good part of the sentence is “Prevention”. According to SADAG, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, at least 75% of suicides can be prevented!
The WHO reports that more than 700,000 people die due to Suicide globally, and many more people attempt Suicide.
If you have never had severe feelings of depression and hopelessness, it might be hard for you to try to understand why someone would get to such a low point that they can see no other option. They find themselves so blinded by helplessness and isolation that they just want to escape. They cannot see another way out…
What Leads To This Point?
There are many causes: depression, substance abuse, bullying, trauma, stress, domestic violence and physical illness can be a cause. Even shame can contribute. It doesn’t help that there is still a stigma attached to mental illness in many societies, which means that many people suffer alone and find it hard to ask for help.
Suicidal thoughts don’t happen overnight – and this is a good thing. If we can learn to recognise the warning signs, we might be able to reach out and make a difference.
What Are The Risk Factors?
Suicide does not discriminate. Anyone of any race, gender, age, or socioeconomic status may feel suicidal. Even someone who seems to “have it all” can be vulnerable to Suicide.
The Risk Factors Are:
- Mental health issues like depression, bipolar or anxiety disorders
- Gender-based violence and abusive relationships
- Physical health conditions like a terminal illness or chronic illness
- A recent trauma or life crisis like the death of a loved one
- Work stress, unemployment, or job loss
- Relationship issues – fights, separation, break up, divorce, etc.
- Financial problems or debt
- History is an important contributor. Previous suicide attempts and a family history of Suicide
There are things to keep an eye out for that can help you recognise a colleague, friend or family member is experiencing a crisis. Of course, if you are feeling, doing or saying any of these, help is available.
Never be afraid to reach out. Talking about mental health shows great bravery and strength. It is okay to express how you are feeling and what you are thinking. Reaching out when you are struggling or need help is also okay!
And it is definitely okay to not be okay.
Mood
Look out for changes in a person’s mood. Everyone experiences these moods from time to time, so in isolation, a single mood might not mean that much. However, when these moods are unusual, persist or aren’t “realistic”, then acting on this is a good idea.
- Irritated
- Depressed
- Aggressive
- Sad
- Numb
- Anxious
- Frustrated
Their Behaviour
As with shifts in mood, behaviour that is unusual or out of context, should ring alarm bells.
- Withdrawing from activities
- Giving away prized possessions
- Isolating from friends & family
- Aggressive or unusually quiet
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Increased use or dependence on alcohol or drugs
They Often Say
Listen for these phrases, especially if they repeat them regularly.
- “I have no purpose.”
- “The pain won’t go away.”
- “I am a burden.”
- “I don’t want to be here anymore.”
- “I feel trapped.”
The best advice is to keep lines of communication open and avoid being judgemental or making them feel ashamed.
Remind them that there is hope and there is help!
SADAG offers toll-free helplines and support 24/7 and 365 days a year: 0800 567 567.
SMS line: 31393
Their website provides valuable resources, such as a suicide safety plan, videos, support groups, surveys and much more.
Visit their website at www.sadag.org/
