World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day was launched in 2003 on September 10th by the International Association for Suicide Prevention with the endorsement of the World Health Organization. The aim is to promote international commitment and action to prevent suicide. Approximately 3000 daily completed suicides. The loss of a person who completed suicide also shatters the lives of those left behind, and the emotional impact could lasting, hence it can affect all of us.

By raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide and encouraging informed action, we can reduce instances of suicide. The theme for 2021 is creating hope through action, which is emphasized that:

1. There is an alternative to suicide.
2. Our actions, irrespective of magnitude, have the potential to provide hope to those struggling.
3. Suicide prevention is possible.
4. We are all key role players in suicide prevention.
5. Through our actions, we can make a difference to someone in their darkest moments.
6. We can all play a role in providing support to those experiencing a suicidal crisis or those bereaved by suicide.

There is no single cause that leads to suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior. It is complex and multifaceted, and no single approach works for everyone. There are, however, certain factors and life events that could increase one’s vulnerability to suicide. Mental illness such as anxiety and depression can be a contributing factor as well as poor coping, poor social support, and challenging life events. People who are suicidal may feel trapped or burdensome to those around them, and may therefore feel alone and like they have no other options. Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic contributed to increased feelings of isolation and vulnerability. The pandemic impacted all aspects of our lives and will continue to for the foreseeable future. Mental health and the prevention of suicide must remain priorities. Now more than ever it is necessary that we focus on taking care of ourselves and others around us. Hence, through our action of offering non-judgmental support, we create hope and communicate to those experiencing suicidality that there is hope and that we care and want to offer support.

Stigma is a major barrier to help-seeking, therefore, changing the narrative around suicide through the promotion of hope can create a more compassionate society, making it easier for people to seek help. A reminder that suicidal behavior is NOT attention seeking, being extra, being selfish, playing the victim, and being ungrateful. Suicidal thoughts are AREN’T just “I want to die”, it is also:

• I need a break from reliving the trauma
• I’m a burden, my loved ones would be better off without me
• Life is meaningless/pointless
• No one cares about me
• I need a break from living
• I feel trapped, I need a way out
• There is no future that I want to live in

Supporting someone who is suicidal can be daunting but here are some helpful tips:

1. Listen empathetically. It is important for someone who is suicidal to feel heard. Listening increases understanding decreases loneliness and the more hope they would be able to see in the future.
2. Help with a daily task. This can range from making their bed, doing the laundry, ordering groceries, which decrease the overwhelm.
3. Remind them that they are loved and not a burden. Often those who are suicidal believe that their loved ones would be better off without them.
4. Be present. Having someone sitting next to you and staying present until the difficulty passes without expectation or conversation can be comforting. It also creates safety.
5. Empower them. Remind them of their accomplishments, their strengths, their positive trait and how proud you are of them for fighting through this challenging time.

All of these could help someone who is suicidal feel loved, cared for, and supported. Being present creates a deep connection and instills hope. Through our action of developing understanding and creating a safe holding space, we offer people the confidence to take action and become a beacon of hope. We can all be that beacon of HOPE!

If you or anyone you know may be struggling with suicide or Covid-19 related mental health issues, please contact our practice or access these free helplines:

• The South African Depression and Anxiety Support Group
• Helpline: 0800 21 22 23 (8am to 8pm)
• Helpline: 0800 12 13 14 (8pm to 8am)
• SMS 31393
• Lifeline
• Helpline: 0861-322-322

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