Shifting the story on suicide
Trigger Warning: This article contains mentions of suicide and related topics that may be distressing to some readers.
Growing up in the ‘90s, discussions about suicide in the Philippines were hushed and shrouded in stigma. The topic was considered taboo, leaving those struggling in silence and preventing open dialogue about mental health. Thankfully, we are witnessing a positive shift in attitudes these days.
With the help of technology and exposure to more content and material, Filipinos are becoming more educated and willing to talk openly about suicide, recognizing it as a critical public health issue that demands our attention. This newfound openness is a blessing, paving the way for greater understanding, support, and ultimately, prevention.
Changing the narrative on suicide: Starting the conversation
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” with the call to action “Start the Conversation” is part of the organization’s triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026. The theme highlights the urgency of transforming how we perceive and address the issue.
The WHO shared that suicide is a major public health challenge, claiming over 700,000 lives globally each year. Each loss has far-reaching consequences, deeply affecting individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Changing the narrative means shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support. It’s about acknowledging the reality of suicide, challenging misconceptions, and fostering an environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help without fear of judgment.
The call to action, “Start the Conversation,” encourages everyone to initiate open and honest dialogues about suicide and mental health. Every conversation, no matter how small, contributes to a more supportive and understanding society. By talking openly, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create cultures of support that empower individuals to seek help when needed.
Understanding suicide
Suicide is a complex issue with no single cause. It is often the result of a combination of factors, including mental health conditions, stressful life events, social isolation, and limited access to mental health care. By learning about the warning signs and risk factors, we can become better equipped to identify those at risk and intervene before it’s too late.
Warning signs and risk factors
My research has shown that some common warning signs of suicide include talking about wanting to die or kill oneself, expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live, feeling trapped or in unbearable pain, talking about being a burden to others, increasing the use of alcohol or drugs, acting anxious or agitated, withdrawing from social activities, sleeping too much or too little, displaying extreme mood swings, and showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
Certain factors, according to research, can also increase an individual’s risk of suicide. These include a history of mental illness, previous suicide attempts, family history of suicide, substance abuse, exposure to suicidal behavior in others, chronic pain or illness, social isolation, loss of a loved one, financial difficulties, bullying, and access to lethal means.
Taking action to prevent suicide
Stephanie Rogers, Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer of American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to safeguard our mental health and support those around us. By arming ourselves with information and taking action when we recognize signs of distress, we can make a significant difference.
Here are some practical steps she suggested on the verywellmind.com:
• Program vital lifelines. Save crisis hotlines on your phone and share them with your network.
• Extend a hand. Check in on a friend, family member, or neighbor who might be facing a tough time.
• Be a voice for change. Support policies that make mental health care accessible to all, including suicide prevention programs and funding for local crisis support.
• Connect and contribute. Get involved with groups in your area that promote mental well-being and support those in need.
World Suicide Prevention Day
As we celebrate World Suicide Prevention Day every Sept. 10, let’s take the chance to affirm or reaffirm our commitment to preventing suicide in the Philippines. By taking proactive steps to safeguard our mental health, encourage getting help, and empower our communities, we can create a society where people can easily shift from drowning in their feelings to easily and openly finding hope through proper help.
If you feel you can use some help, visit https://findahelpline.com.
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