Today is World Mental Health Day which was organized by the World Mental Health Federation. It is also supported by the World Health Organization. The focus this year is “Suicide Prevention”. I thought that I would take a moment to share with you some facts about suicide. You will also find 4 ways you can strive to prevent suicide on World Mental Health Day 2019 and everyday. It is my hope that this post helps to raise awareness for suicide on this mental health day.
Why Suicide Prevention is Important on World Mental Health Day-The Facts
- Suicide is prevalent. Unfortunately, close to 800,000 people die due to suicide every year. For each suicide, there are many more people who attempt suicide.
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-29 year-olds.
- Suicide is preventable. Low cost, evidenced-based interventions can ensure that individuals receive the support that they need so that they can overcome thoughts of suicide.
Who Is At Risk for Suicide?
These facts are brought to you by the World Health Organization
- Individuals who come from low-income and middle income countries are at an increased risk for suicide. In fact, 79% of suicides occurred in low-and middle-income countries in the year 2016.
- Vulnerable populations such as those in the homeless, same sex couples, and prisoners are at a higher risk for attempting suicide.
- Although certain populations and certain circumstances (such as a diagnosis of mental illness or a substance use disorder) increase your risk for suicide, anyone is at risk. Why is it that anyone is at risk? Because suicide can happen in times of crises as a result of a spur-of-the-moment decision.
4 Ways to Help Prevent Suicide on World Mental Health Day
You know the facts about suicide, you know who is at risk for suicide, so what can you do to help? There are 4 simple ways to help support individuals with suicidal thoughts and consequently, help to prevent suicide.
1. Pray for them.
Some individuals will never share with others their struggle with suicidal ideations. You may never know if your friend or family member is dealing with suicidal ideations or thoughts of harming oneself but I can assure you, that the Lord who knit them together in their mother’s womb knows and he cares. Mention your friend or loved one to Jesus and ask him to help them with their need (whatever it may be).
2. Be There for Them
Sometimes just talking about hard situations and suicidal ideations can help someone to feel better. You will not cause someone to want to commit suicide by listening to them talk about their feelings. If someone reaches out to you and shares their struggle with suicidal ideations, listen attentively and offer support and encouragement as opposed to shaming them. You may feel uncomfortable sitting with someone in their darkest hour but if you are willing to sit with them long enough, you will have the opportunity to share some of your light.
3. Encourage Them to Get Help
Some situations you may not be equipped to handle. If someone shares with you that they are thinking about suicide, be supportive but also encourage them to seek professional help. If they have a plan for suicide, no matter how vague it is, call 911 and sit with them (or keep them on the phone) until help arrives.
4. Love Them
This may seem simple and should probably go without saying but, if your friend or family member comes to you and shares their struggle with suicidal ideations, support them. Try not to treat your family member or friend differently. Strive to keep from avoiding them as isolation can put individuals at an increased risk for suicide. Take them food and offer to sit with them a while. Be comfortable just being there for them. Love them no matter what.
On this mental health day 2019, take the time to talk to those around you about suicide, advocate for those with mental health issues, raise awareness by sharing the information on social media platforms. Support those who are vulnerable not just today, but everyday.
Conclusion
Do you have a personal experience with thoughts of suicide and have something that worked for you? Share it below. Know someone who needs information on suicide, share this post with them so they know the facts and ways to help. If you’re secretly struggling with thoughts of suicide and don’t feel like you can reach out to anyone and talk to them about your struggles, know that you can reach out to me. Please, if you’re struggling send me a message and let’s talk. Know that whether you reach out to me or not, I’m praying for you. Tomorrow would not be the same without you here!
P.S. If you’re having feelings of hopelessness or depression, be sure to check 4 Things to Do When You Feel Hopeless, 5 Steps to Experiencing Joy in Any Circumstance, and 5 Ways to do More than Just Survive: How to Thrive.
1 thought on “4 Ways to Prevent Suicide on World Mental Health Day”