Preventing suicide: Hope through action

Dr Matiur Rahman :

Every year on September 10th, the world meets to observe World Suicide Prevention Day.

The triennial theme of World Suicide Prevention Day from 2022-2023 is “Creating hope through action”.

This theme serves as a powerful call to action and a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and that we can encourage hope and strengthen resistance through our efforts.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 700,000 people die by suicide yearly, and about 77 per cent of all global suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries.

WHO also ranked Bangladesh tenth in the world in terms of suicide rates.

At least 13 thousand people commit suicide in Bangladesh every year.

By creating hope through action, we can signal people experiencing suicidal thoughts that there is hope and that we care and want to support them.

It also suggests that our efforts can give hope to those struggling, whether big or small.

Finally, it serves as a reminder that suicide prevention is a public health priority and that urgent action is needed to ensure that suicide mortality rates are reduced.

Hope becomes our most potent weapon in such a sobering reality.

Hope can shine a light in the darkest times, offering a lifeline to those trapped in the abyss of despair.

This World Suicide Prevention Day, we emphasisehope’s profound role in saving lives.

It’s a beacon that reminds us that recovery is possible, that help is available, and that life, no matter how bleak it may seem, is worth living.

One of the most significant obstacles to suicide prevention is the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Stigma can be a silent killer, preventing individuals from seeking help when they need it the most.

This year’s theme, “Creating hope through action,” underscores the importance of breaking down these barriers.

By reducing stigma, we can make it easier for individuals to reach out for support without fear of judgment or discrimination.

Creating hope through action means adopting a multi-faceted approach to suicide prevention.

It involves awareness campaigns, mental health promotion, accessible and affordable treatment, and support for vulnerable populations.

Prevention means understanding the risk factors and warning signs, offering compassion to those in distress, and advocating for policy changes prioritising mental health care.

Creating hope through action requires tailored interventions for these vulnerable populations.

It means addressing their unique stressors and challenges and ensuring they have access to culturally sensitive and appropriate support.

Timely access to mental health care is paramount in suicide prevention.

Unfortunately, many individuals worldwide still struggle to access affordable and quality mental health services.

This World Suicide Prevention Day, we call for increased investment in mental health infrastructure so that no one is left behind in their journey to recovery.

Early identification and intervention can be life-saving.

Suicide is not confined to one country or culture; it is a global issue. World Suicide Prevention Day encourages international collaboration.

Sharing best practices, research findings, and resources across borders can strengthen suicide prevention efforts.

Countries can improve their mental health care systems and support networks by learning from each other.

While governments, healthcare systems, and organisations play a vital role in suicide prevention, individuals also have a significant impact.

Each one of us can create hope through our actions.

It can be as simple as reaching out to a friend or family member struggling or as impactful as advocating for improved mental health services in our communities.

Sometimes, all it takes to create hope is to lend a compassionate and non-judgmental ear.

Listening is a powerful form of support.

On this day, let us commit to actively listening to those who may be experiencing emotional pain.

Let us encourage open conversations about mental health and suicide, creating a safe space for individuals to share their thoughts and feelings.

Ultimately, World Suicide Prevention Day is a message of hope.

It reminds us that, even in our darkest moments, there is the potential for a brighter tomorrow.

By taking action, breaking down stigma, and promoting mental health, we can offer hope to those who need it most.

We can be the difference between despair and recovery, between a life lost and a life saved.

World Suicide Prevention Day 2023 calls upon all of us to take action and create hope.

It is a day to remember those we have lost to suicide, to support those who are struggling, and to commit ourselves to a future where suicide is no longer a leading cause of death.

Together, through our collective actions, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities worldwide.

Let us create hope through action and work towards a world where every life is valued and protected.

(The writer is a researcher and development worker).