SUICIDE! IT IS TIME TO BE CONCERNED
World Suicide Prevention Day will be observed on Friday 10th
September 2021. “Creating Hope through Action” will be the theme until 2023. Suicide is
identified as a major mental health problem in many regions; what of Antigua
and Barbuda? When will we become concerned enough to treat this issue with some
measure of urgency?
Suicide is defined as the act of intentionally
killing oneself. In an effort to combat the issue of suicide, there must be a
collaborative effort amongst multiple sectors within the society. The health and
education sectors, non- governmental agencies, civic society and church groups
all have vital roles to play in addressing the problem.
Suicide is a global occurrence not limited to
race or status, and facts have shown that 77% of the world’s suicides in 2019
took place in low- and middle-income countries. Statistics from the World
Health Organization (WHO) also indicate that more than 700,000 persons die as a
result of suicide each year.
Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in
youths between the ages of 15-19 years old. The most common methods used to
perform the act worldwide are: the ingestion of poisonous substances,
overdosing on drugs, hangings and firearms.
The link between suicide and mental health has
long been touted by medical experts. Certain mental health conditions including
bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and manic depression increase the
likelihood of suicide attempts. Other factors attributing to suicide risk are:
alcohol abuse, drug abuse, terminal illnesses, the break- up of relationships
and financial hardships.
In many instances, suicides are preventable; however,
it can only be prevented through information sharing along with timely interventions.
Those with the necessary capabilities need to offer support to those who are
vulnerable and are displaying signs of extreme stress or depression.
Suicide
remains a complex matter in which no singular approach can remedy. Consequently,
those with the authority to change laws and implement policies should take
steps to tackle this issue soonest.
If progress is to become a reality, all
barriers regarding suicide must be dismantled with a vigorous educational
awareness campaign. Such campaigns must take place within communities to
increase their effectiveness.
Every suicide attempt should be viewed as an
indication that someone needs immediate assistance. A suicide attempt should never
be treated with triviality, not when a desperate soul is crying out, “I need help.”
There is stigmatisation attached to those with
mental health disorders as well as those who have attempted suicide. It is that
stigma which creates a barrier to those who are willing to seek help but do not
wish to be judged harshly by society.
Psychiatric
nurses are available at the public health clinics for those with family members
or friends in need of counselling. In severe cases, a referral is made to the
Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital where doctors are responsible for care and
treatment.
King Progress sang a song which is quite
applicable for such a time as this. “WE
MUST LEARN TO CARE”. Other words
to remember “Sometimes it takes only one act of kindness and caring to change a
person’s life”. Jackie Chan.
To family and friends of suicide victims, we at
the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment do empathize and hope that
you will find solace in the midst of your grief. You are also encourage to
participate in our CANDLE LIGHT VISUAL
ON FRIDAY 10th SEPTEMBER
AT .8:00 PM.
POST A PICTURE OF YOUR CANDLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA WITH #WSPD
#WORLD SUICIDE DAY #
BE THE LIGHT.