Resources to discuss suicide prevention and awareness as well as to seek help.
September is a National Suicide Prevention Awareness month, a month to appreciate people with mental health conditions. We raise awareness on this taboo and stigmatized topic that families and society fail to accept and learn. Furthermore, this is a month we create awareness by spreading hope and important information to society. Therefore, the focus will not only be on people affected by mental health conditions but even those around them.
As devastating as mental illness can be, it is likely to affect anyone regardless of gender, age, background, and race. Suicide is a serious issue that most people tend to overlook. In addition, many don’t pay any attention to their thoughts until the unfortunate event happens.
What is suicide?
Suicide is when someone plans to harm themselves with the goal of ending their life. As a result, they end up dying. However, if one plans to end their life and fails that is called a suicide attempt.
How to identify the warning signs of someone with suicidal thoughts?
- Somehow people who plan to attempt suicide constantly speak about wanting to die or killing themselves.
- They talk about not having a reason to live or see a need to live.
- In most cases, they feel empty inside and have no faith in life
- Out of nowhere, they start saying their goodbyes to their loved ones
- It is most likely those who feel trapped with no solution
What you need to know about suicide prevention awareness;
- On the 10th of September, the world remembers people who are affected by suicide. Moreover, it is the day we create awareness for those who struggle with suicide thoughts and offer treatment where necessary.
- Research shows that people with suicidal thoughts feel relief after speaking to someone about their issues.
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5 steps for helping people with mental illness
- Talk and offer an ear to them: sometimes talking to someone and asking about their wellbeing is helpful. Again, at some time, it is helpful to just lend an ear and listen without disruptions.
- Keep them and their place safe: a suicidal person can use lethal items to get the job done. Ensuring that they have no access to highly lethal items can go a long way. Also, make sure they are safe from themselves.
- Be there and offer a support system: research shows that talking about suicide reduces suicidal thoughts. So, lending your ear can actually save someone’s life. Don’t make them feel judged.
- Connect them with professionals: You can call SADAG to talk on behalf of a loved one, colleague, or friend. Here are the numbers to contact 0800 21 22 23 (8am to 8pm), 0800 12 13 14 (8pm to 8am), or SMS 31393.
- Always check up on them: make sure you stay connected with them always and show them, love.