In 2003, the International Association for Suicide Prevention established World Suicide Prevention Day. Twenty years later, the commitment to raise awareness and reduce stigma on the matter of suicides remains steadfast.
The world as it is today is extremely volatile and complex, making it nearly impossible for those with limited resources to catch up. Coupled with hustle culture and the epidemic of being chronically online, it is the ideal environment for mental health to deteriorate. As much as one would like to sweep it under the rug, thoughts of suicide eventually creep into the many areas of one’s life.
Suicide is always difficult to talk about. Some might consider it an effect of a rebellious phase or the result of a lack of faith. Instead of encouraging open conversations about mental health, they stigmatize and see the struggling person as the problem; guilt tripping them for having suicidal thoughts. They proceed to prescribe religion as treatment as if it could instantly cure the inner workings of one’s mind. But suicide should be understood as a major public health problem with lasting effects for the individuals and communities it leaves hanging.
This year’s theme focuses on Creating Hope Through Action, which the World Health Organization deems as a “powerful call to action and reminder” that our actions have the ability to impact and provide hope to people who are grappling with suicide. We have the freedom to choose from an array of options – a shared post, a quick phone call, or an offer to drive around and just feel. The possibilities are endless. No matter how small or insignificant, our actions can go a long way and give support to those who need it most.
We have come a long way, but we must also acknowledge that we still have a long way to go. The fight against suicide requires ongoing efforts from communities and organizations to raise awareness and to create a more compassionate society. Our commitment to suicide prevention is a daily affirmation which reminds us that kindness goes a long way, and that to create hope through action is to choose to keep going – for ourselves and for others.
