World Suicide Prevention Day: What Are The Warning Signs, Risk Factors And Prevention Resources?

by Francisca Coker

Suicide is one of the leading cause of death world wide. More than 700,000 people die by suicide each year, according to World Health Organisation.

Suicide rates have been climbing for years in some parts of the world. In the United States, suicide rates have surged by 35% between 1999 and 2018. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calls suicide a “growing public health problem.”

The effects of suicide can be long lasting as it has a significant impact on family members emotional and social functioning. It is however preventable and several steps can be taken to help those who are vulnerable.

To raise awareness, World Suicide Prevention Day theme this year is “Creating hope through action”, to stress the importance of collective action to address this issue, according to Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

Warning Signs Of Suicide

  • Aggressive Behavior
  • Threats or comments about killing themselves.
  • Social withdrawal from family, friends and community.
  • Dramatic mood swings.
  • Increased consumption of alcohol and drugs.
  • Threats or comments about killing themselves.
  • Making a will or giving away personal possessions.
  • Searching for a means of doing personal harm, such as buying a gun.
  • Sleeping too much or too little.
  • Talking, thinking or writing about death.
  • Impulsive or reckless behavior.

Suicide Risk Factors

  • Previous suicide attempts.
  • Feel hopeless, worthless, agitated, socially isolated or lonely.
  • Experience a stressful life event, such as the loss of a loved one, military service, a breakup, or financial or legal problems.
  • Have a family history of mental disorders, substance abuse, suicide, or violence, including physical or sexual abuse.
  • Have a medical condition that can be linked to depression and suicidal thinking, such as chronic disease, chronic pain or terminal illness.
  • Having access to lethal means.
  • Being exposed to another person’s suicide.

According to WHO, here are things to do if you know anyone showing symptoms of suicide:

  • Find an appropriate time and a quiet place to talk with the person. Let them know you are there to listen.
  • Encourage him or her to seek the help of a professional such as a doctor, mental health expert, counsellor or social worker. Offer to accompany to an appointment.
  • Ensure the person does not have access to means of self-harm at home.
  • Keep a check on how the person is doing.
  • If you think the person is in immediate danger, do not leave them alone. Seek the help of a professional from emergency services, a crisis line or a healthcare professional, or turn to family members.

Suicide Prevention Resources

Nigerian Suicide Prevention Initiative Counselling Centre: +234 806 210 6493, +234 809 210 6493.

Lagos suicide hotlines, by the Lagos State Government– +2348058820777, 09030000741.

LUTH Suicide Research and Prevention Initiative (SURPIN) – 09080217555, 09034400009, 08111909909 and 07013811143.

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