Mental Health and Suicide
The other morning, while reading the newspaper, I found myself reflecting on the troubling rise of suicide. A page dedicated to suicide reports made me think deeply. It highlighted incidents where individuals, overwhelmed by humiliation or grief, ended their lives. There are many such occurrences in society, where physical health is prioritized while mental health is often neglected. The World Health Organization states that nearly 800,000 people die by suicide every year. This says it all about the seriousness of the problem.
Why are suicide rates rising in our society? Of course, from personal experience, I will say that a lot of mental struggle along with death thoughts have been part of my life. But it is because of these experiences and others around me that I have gained some valuable insights.
Mental health can be referred to as one's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Genetics, trauma, social pressure, mental stress, or substance use might have an effect on mental health. While so much is spoken about physical health, mental health tends to take a backseat. The scenario becomes worse by a lack of knowledge about services offered for mental health.
Let's now see the connection of mental health and suicide. Suicide is an enormously complex issue which arises out of a mixture of psychological, biological, and social factors. It is proven that depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse can contribute to an individual's chance of committing suicide. However, suicides cannot always be directly attributed to known mental illnesses. Economic distress, family disputes, and pressures from society all contribute heavily in driving a person to suicide.
What can we do to save more people from the rising number of suicides?
1. Create public awareness of mental health. Making accessible, effective mental health services is an important step in addressing this issue.
2. Educate teachers, workers in healthcare, community leaders, and even family members to identify this urge.
3. The government should have helplines and mental health centers in every community.
4. Practices like meditation, exercise, and healthy conversations can work wonders for someone's mental wellness.
Some of the indicators of suicidal thought include a withdrawal from life activities, talking of being a burden, withdrawing from loved ones, drastic changes in behavior, and giving away some of their properties. When a person shows such signs, there is a great need to care for them through compassion and sympathy. Most individuals who are depressed will open up when there is a safe avenue to discuss the issue.
Families, schools, workplaces, and communities must create both physical and mental safe spaces. Governments must prioritize mental health policies and provide necessary financial assistance for mental health services. Mental health and suicide require urgent attention, as proper interventions can save lives.
If you or someone you know is suffering from mental health issues, do not hesitate to seek help. Life is precious, and with the right support, positive change is possible. Let us all be aware that even the smallest act of kindness can make a life-changing difference. Each one of us has a role to play in promoting mental well-being in our communities.
By becoming more mindful and compassionate, we can help strengthen not only the minds but also the bodies of those around us. Mental health awareness and care are as important as physical health.