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Sometimes, it's difficult to talk about suicide prevention or even death by suicide. If we've been fortunate enough to not be affected by an acquaintance who has died by suicide, it might seem like a reality that's too foreign to us. And, as such, it can be difficult to talk about it. It's a topic that can bring up a lot of fear, shame, and guilt–emotions we tend to avoid at all costs.
But we must get through these tough emotions and have a healthy conversation about this. It's the only way to take care of one another and practice mental health prevention.
Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. A day to do our best to raise awareness about this important and sensitive topic. Here are some facts about it:
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Nearly 800,000 people die by suicide in the world each year, which is roughly one death every 40 seconds.
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Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death in the world for those aged 15-24 years.
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Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
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Each suicide intimately affects at least 6 other people.
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Women are 3 times more likely than men to attempt suicide, and men are 3.5 times more likely to have a fatal outcome when attempting suicide.
While there are many more facts and myths surrounding this important issue, the one I would like to emphasize the most in this article is that: suicide IS preventable. While there are global issues that are out of our control, our ability to touch base and connect with one another is a way we can support this cause.
Human connection is a crucial part of the survival of our species. And, it's a key factor to our overall wellbeing. As stated by the Stanford Center for Compassion & Altruism Research and Education,
"People low in social connection are more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, antisocial behavior, and even suicidal behaviors which tend to further increase their isolation."
In addition to this, studies have shown that a strong social connection leads to a 50% increased chance of longevity, strengthens your immune system, helps you recover from disease faster, can develop greater empathy, and higher self-esteem, among others.
Sometimes, though, these "bids for connection" can get perceived as something overwhelming. And, in response to this, feelings of defensiveness might arise. Which, consequently, interrupts our ability for human connection. So, how do we offer help and emotional support in a non-threatening way? Here are some ideas.
A text can go a long way
Sometimes, a text saying "hey, I'm thinking about you, hope all is well", can go a long way. Sometimes, that simple yet powerful move can help open a conversation that might've stayed silent otherwise.
Taking someone out for a cup of coffee
Carving out space during the week to grab a coffee with a colleague, friend or family member can make a huge difference in someone's life. While the conversation might start out as something "superficial" or "impersonal", maybe that's what the other person needs to feel safe. Let the conversation gradually become more intimate, if the other person allows for this intimacy.
A sweet token of appreciation
Sometimes we might find ourselves at a grocery store or a shop and find something that reminds of someone in need of emotional support. A small and sweet token of appreciation can go a long way, as it sends an important message of "I'm thinking about you and you matter to me". People going through a rough time need to feel and hear this often.
Never underestimate a handwritten note
Similar to a token of appreciation, a handwritten note can go a long way. A post-it on the desk of a colleague who's going through a divorce, or a note inside the lunchbox of your teen who just started a new school. A handwritten note is a powerful tool, albeit an unpopular alternative.
Show them how they're in your top of mind
Someone who is going through a difficult situation appreciates the constant reminder that they're not alone. Just like there are different love languages, there are also different ways to show someone that you care about them. Think about what kind of love language the other person speaks and attempt to show them they're in your top of mind by speaking their love language.
Saying "I love you" can be incredibly powerful
I've realized that we don't say I love you as often as we should. And it's such a simple and powerful way to connect with one another.
Let's use today to touch base with our loved ones. With that friend who just moved, or that colleague going through a breakup, or that family member living with depression or anxiety. Let's take care of one another and make daily choices to connect with another from a place of vulnerability, love, honesty, and respect.
