Megan Gonsalves | Manager | Crisis Line and Marketing | Netcare Akeso | mail me |
Suicide may be an uncomfortable topic – but talking about it is very necessary as it can help prevent tragic, untimely deaths.
World Suicide Prevention Day, an annual awareness day marked on 10 September. The day highlights the importance of ongoing awareness and public education. This is critical to help reduce suicide rates and reach those who need professional support in time.
Suicide is complex and there is rarely a single deciding factor. Depression, anxiety and substance abuse, as well as interpersonal conflicts or a crisis, are often underlying risk factors.
One call for suicide prevention could save a life
While some suicides are planned carefully months in advance. However, many appear to be impulsive and may be acted on within hours or minutes of being conceived. A study by the Harvard School of Public Health found that one in four survivors of almost lethal suicide attempts deliberated for less than five minutes before acting. A mere 13% of those interviewed had thought about suicide for more than a day.
Other studies suggest almost half of people attempt suicide within just 10 minutes of the thought entering their minds. Australian research indicated 40% acted on suicidal thoughts within the first five minutes.
It is deeply disturbing that in a mere five minutes, a person can decide to end their life forever. We are creating awareness with a campaign “One call – the difference between now and forever” to intervene in these crucial minutes when a person may be contemplating suicide. This campaign aims to help suicidal individuals break free from the ‘fog’ they may feel trapped in. With a path to move into a clearer and brighter space where hope can be found beyond the immediate crisis they are experiencing.
Five steps to help a person at risk
It can be challenging to know how best to approach someone who may be having suicidal thoughts. Bear in mind that this conversation needs to be direct to ascertain the risks and to determine what can be done to help the person.
Five practical steps when you are concerned someone may be at risk:
- Ask – Be direct in asking the person whether they are thinking about suicide or have plans to harm themselves.
- Be there – Listening without judgment is key to understanding more about what the person is thinking and feeling. Remember, this is not an easy conversation for them either. You don’t need to give advice; just listen and be there for them.
- Help them keep safe – Don’t leave the person alone. Where possible, reduce access to any harmful items or areas where suicide could be attempted. Asking the person if they have a plan can help to identify these factors and help keep them safe if suicidal thoughts occur.
- Connect with professional help – There are many resources and suicide helplines that can be contacted. These also include our 24-hour crisis line on 0861 435 787 and the South African Anxiety and Depression Group (SADAG) 24-hour suicide crisis helpline on 0800 567 567. Help guide the person to a safe place for support and, if possible, help them reach out to these resources.
- Follow up – Stay in touch with the person after the crisis or after they have contacted a professional. Ongoing support is important to mental health and wellbeing.
Speaking up to encourage suicide prevention
Tragically, stigma remains the main barrier to people seeking help when they are at potential risk of developing suicidal ideation. This could be influenced by the taboo many feel when it comes to discussing mental health. In addition, a misplaced, though widespread societal belief that suicide shouldn’t be spoken of. This only perpetuates feelings of shame or failure that stand in the way of people reaching out when they need support and treatment.
The more people who speak up to encourage suicide prevention strategies and know how to offer support to someone who could be at risk, the greater our chance of dismantling the stigma and reducing the unquantifiable burden of tragedy the suicide rate represents.
Suicide facts by numbers
- Suicide accounts for approximately 700,000 deaths each year worldwide.
- For each suicide, there are an estimated 20 suicide attempts.
- In 2019, suicide was the fourth leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds globally.
- It is estimated that one in five people has suicidal thoughts in their lifetime.
- South Africa is ranked in the top 10 countries by suicide rate with 23,5 suicides per 100,000 people, and this represents approximately 14,000 suicides each year
The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) goal for suicide is to decrease the rate by one-third globally by 2030. To achieve this, countries with high suicide rates must prioritise interventions, as they are proven to be effective.
Acting to intervene in the space of opportunity before somebody takes their life can be as simple as making a phone call. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you know someone who may be at risk of suicide.
Addressing myths about suicide
Myth 1 – Talking about suicide will encourage suicidal attempts
Talking about suicide can help reduce suicidal ideation. Talking about these difficult topics increases the likelihood of someone seeking help. Having a conversation around suicide can help to provide alternative views for someone struggling to see beyond their specific existing circumstances.
Asking someone in crisis if they are thinking about suicide can help to open a conversation that they otherwise may not know how to begin.
Myth 2 – Suicides happen without warning
While people do not always share their thoughts, some studies have found that almost 50% of people do tell someone about their suicidal thoughts or behaviours. This is not always obvious or direct but could be through non-verbal gestures or subtle comments.
Even if someone doesn’t directly say they may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, there are often warning signs to look out for:
- Talking about suicide, statements such as “I wish I were dead”, “I wish I hadn’t been born”, or preoccupation with death or dying.
- Having access to weapons or means to take their own life, or engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviour.
- Withdrawing from social contact and isolating from others.
- Feeling trapped, hopeless, or helpless about a situation.
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
- Giving away belongings or getting their affairs ‘in order’ and saying goodbye to people as though they won’t see them again.
- Personality changes, severe anxiety or agitation.
- Extreme changes in normal routine, such as sleeping patterns.
- Previous history of suicide attempts.
- Experiencing trauma or crisis.
Myth 3 – Once a person is intent on suicide you cannot stop them
Suicide can be unpredictable, but in many cases, it can be preventable. A person thinking about suicide is often experiencing hopelessness or extreme emotional pain and helping them to address those feelings and seek support can make a lifesaving difference.
Myth 4 – People who threaten suicide are seeking attention
Any threat or talk of suicidality should be taken seriously. Some people open up to those around them about how they are feeling, which can be a way of asking for help.
If someone talks about feeling suicidal, it is important to be kind and sensitive, avoid blame or judgement, and ask direct questions to understand the risks. Connecting with professional mental health or medical support should be encouraged and facilitated if necessary.
Related FAQs: World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD)
Q: What is World Suicide Prevention Day?
A: World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is an annual event. Started in 2003 to raise awareness about suicide, encourage effective prevention strategies and promote mental health. It focuses on creating hope through action to help those affected by suicide.
Q: When is World Suicide Prevention Day?
A: World Suicide Prevention Day is observed on September 10th every year. This day serves as a reminder to focus attention on the global issue of suicide and its prevention.
Q: How can I help prevent suicides in my community?
A: You can help prevent suicides by raising awareness about suicide, supporting national suicide prevention initiatives and encouraging open discussions about mental health. Engaging with organisations, like the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), can also provide resources and support.
Q: What role does the World Health Organisation play in suicide prevention?
A: The World Health Organisation (WHO) plays a crucial role in suicide prevention by providing guidelines and strategies to reduce the global suicide mortality rate. They work with various organisations to promote mental health and effective suicide prevention measures worldwide.
Q: How does gender influence suicide rates?
A: Gender and suicide are interconnected, with research indicating that men are more likely to die by suicide, while women often experience more suicidal thoughts. Understanding these differences is vital for creating effective suicide prevention strategies tailored to various demographics.
Q: What is the significance of the phrase “suicide can be prevented”?
A: The phrase “suicide can be prevented” emphasises that with the right interventions, support and resources, it is possible to reduce the incidence of suicide and save lives. It reflects the belief that proactive measures can make a difference in addressing suicide as a major public health problem.
Q: What are some common signs of suicidal thoughts?
A: Common signs of suicidal thoughts include talking about feeling hopeless or trapped, expressing feelings of worthlessness, withdrawing from social activities and exhibiting drastic mood changes. Awareness about suicide and recognising these signs can help in providing timely support.
Q: How can organisations contribute to raising awareness on World Suicide Prevention Day?
A: Organisations can contribute by hosting events, sharing educational materials and collaborating with mental health professionals. In addition, promoting campaigns that focus on suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Engaging in community outreach is also essential for spreading the call to action.