Open conversations about suicide save lives and breaks the stigma. 🌼🪷
World Suicide Prevention Day: Break the Silence
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is an annual event held on September 10th to raise awareness of suicide and its prevention.
Talking about suicide can be a lifesaver.
The Purpose of WSPD
World Suicide Prevention Day is the brainchild of the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH). They teamed up to make this day a thing back in 2003, and it’s been making waves ever since.
The purpose of WSPD is to:
- Raise awareness of suicide as a major public health issue
- Break down the stigma associated with suicide
- Promote suicide prevention strategies
- Provide support to those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts or feelings
Debunking Misconceptions
Let’s clear the air, shall we?
Myth: “Talking about suicide somehow makes it more likely to happen.”
Fact: Quite the opposite. Talking about it openly is one of the most effective ways to prevent it. Open conversations can be a lifeline.
Myth: “Suicide is just a “rich country” problem”, or alternatively “Suicide is just a “poor country” problem”
Fact: Suicide doesn’t discriminate based on income, and it’s a global issue.
Myth: “Depression and suicidal thoughts are signs of weakness.”
Fact: Depression and hopelessness are symptoms of serious fundamental problems. It’s like having a leaky roof; you wouldn’t blame the house, would you?
Myth: “There is nothing you can do to help someone who is suicidal.”
Fact: You can make a world of difference by listening, showing compassion and support people to find the help they need.
Turning the Tide: What Can You Do?
Here’s a checklist of things you can do to prevent feelings of hopelessness, whether it’s in you or someone you know:
- Talk It Out:
Listen without judgment, offer a shoulder to lean on, and don’t be afraid to reach out if you need help yourself. Don’t keep it bottled up. A problem shared is a problem halved, they say. - Spread Awareness:
Learn about the signs of suicide and educate those around you. Knowledge is power. Encourage people to seek professional help if they are struggling with mental health problems. - Support Mental Health Services:
Advocate for better access to mental health services and break down the barriers to seeking help. - Practice Self-Care:
Take care of your own mental health. It’s like putting on your oxygen mask first on a turbulent flight—you can’t help others if you’re struggling yourself!
Let’s Talk About Life
Life can be a rollercoaster with its ups and downs, but it’s the only ride in town. And the end of life is always on the end of your todo list. Check this list thoroughly to see if you’re not missing any chances to get a bit more out of life while you still can!
Let’s have empathy for ourselves and those around us, and make the most of every twist and turn. Reach out to a friend, check in on your loved ones, and don’t forget to take care of your own mental health.
Stay curious, stay compassionate, and let’s talk about life.
“Sometimes even to live is an act of courage.”
(Lucius Annaeus Seneca)
#WorldSuicidePreventionDay #SuicidePreventionDay
