Creating Hope Through Action

“To anyone out there who’s hurting it’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help. It’s a sign of strength.”- Barack Obama. We all have down days. There are days when we feel like staying in bed all day. Depression is real and many of us experience this emotional roller coaster rather frequently. Unfortunately, some of us will reach that point in life where nothing matters anymore. However, there is always help and nothing is wrong with seeking the assistance of others as we cope with life and all that comes with it. World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), celebrated annually on 10 September, is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). The event represents a global commitment to focus attention on suicide prevention. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 703,000 people a year take their lives around the world. For every suicide, there are likely 20 other people making a suicide attempt and many more have serious thoughts of suicide. Regrettably, millions of people suffer intense grief or are otherwise profoundly impacted by suicidal behaviours. Each suicidal death is a public health concern with a profound impact on those around them. By raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide, and encouraging well-informed action, we can reduce instances of suicide around the world. The taking of one’s life is not gender specific. Research indicates that males tend to use more drastic means of ending their lives. Suicide affects all ages. As a result we must be vigilant and provide the necessary assistance for our children. In Jamaica, the suicide rate is approximately 2.1 per 100,000, with statistics from the Jamaica Constabulary Force reflecting between 47 and 56 deaths yearly due to suicide. The theme of WSPD 2022, “Creating Hope through Action,” reflects the need for collective, action to address this urgent public health issue. This theme is a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and light in all of us. According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), all of us- family members, friends, co-workers, community members, educators, religious leaders, healthcare professionals, political officials and governments- can take action to prevent suicide. Objectives The overall goal of this day is to raise awareness about suicide prevention worldwide. Objectives include promoting stakeholder collaboration and self-empowerment to address self-harm and suicide through preventative action. These can be achieved through capacity building of healthcare providers and other relevant actors, positive and informative messaging aimed at the general population and at-risk groups such as young people, and facilitating open discussion on mental health at home, at school, in the workplace, etc. Those contemplating or affected by suicide are also encouraged to share their stories and seek professional help. Hope Through Action Suicides and suicide attempts have a ripple effect that impacts not only individuals, but also families, communities and societies. Associated risk factors for suicide, such as job or financial loss, trauma or abuse, mental and substance use disorders, and barriers to accessing health care, have been further amplified by COVID-19. One year after the pandemic’s onset, more than half of people surveyed in Chile, Brazil, Peru and Canada reported that their mental health had gotten worse. Suicide can be prevented. Social stigma and a lack of awareness remain major barriers to help-seeking for suicide, highlighting the need for mental health literacy and anti-stigma campaigns. Locally, a Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Helpline has been established by the Ministry of Health and Wellness in partnership with the non-governmental organization Choose Life International (CLI) to provide support to persons in need of assistance. The helpline, 1-888-NEW-LIFE (1-888-639-5433), will be toll-free, providing 24-hour assistance to persons with mental health issues seeking help. Our mental state of health is very critical to our overall state of wellbeing. There are also many professional counselors available to support our mental health. One can also speak to a guidance counselor, a pastor or priest or someone who is trusted for support on mental health issues. We should not allow stigma or discrimination to prevent us from seeking psychiatric assistance to support our mental health. Help is always available should you find yourself struggling with mental health issues. Speak to someone. In the words of Anthony Liccione, life is short enough, there is nothing worth here to take your life, and those things we do gain can never be taken to our grave. Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues. waykam@yahoo.com @WayneCamo © #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #WSPD #BeTheLight #CreatingHopeThroughAction