Today is World Suicide Prevention Day which focuses on the commitment to preventative measures and the reduction in suicide rates. For the next two years, ‘Changing the narrative’ on suicide is the theme of the day with the call ‘start the conversation’ being their tagline.
This is to highlight the stigma that is still around mental health and how discussions need to be had to move forward as a society and support those who are struggling without the fear of judgment. This day is dedicated to transforming how people view such a complex issue and moving into a space of support and openness.
The ‘call to action’ is for everyone to be included in this conversation and to help in preventing suicide. The World suicide prevention website indicates how even one conversation, no matter how small, can lead to a dramatic difference in someone’s mental health, and an overall better understanding as a society.
Additionally, this day aims to place pressure on the government to highlight the harm mental health issues can have on individuals and groups. With a call to the government to increase access to care, provide support for those in need, and prioritise and advocate for mental health within their party policies.
This day was created by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO). This team have dedicated time and resources to ensuring this day is highly promoted so that their message of suicide prevention is visible to all.
Through advice taken from Debasmita Sinha, Chief Psychologist and Senior Director-Clinical Excellence at Manah Wellness, the organisation highlighted the signs that are suggested for people to look for in their loved ones and wider circles to aid in suicide prevention.
Debasmita Sinha stated that any one of the signs below could be a cause for concern. People pulling away and not getting involved within a group or skipping usual activities, sudden changes in mood and behaviour, discussions of feeling hopeless or stuck, or discussing giving their possessions of value and sentimental connection away.
It is important as a part of society to be aware of these warning signs and deal with them appropriately. These include talking to them and checking in when possible. Tell someone about what you are thinking and if you are deeply concerned for their safety, call an emergency service who will guide you on the appropriate next steps.
A report from the National Library of Medicine published in 2020 states that mental health and stress in the South Asian community often go unaddressed. This report highlights a UK study, this shows that sadly Pakistani men and older Indian and Pakistani women, have higher reports of anxiety and depression compared to similar ages of other ethnicities. T. Reham who studied social and cultural constraints emphasises that health and social care in ethnic communities are vastly different. With studies demonstrating that South Asian women are more susceptible to depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
This report is then linked to the cultural stigma around mental health issues. Rehman’s 2013 study highlights that members of the South Asian community fear shame on their family if they disclose mental health concerns or illness. He highlights that as a result, many keep their problems to themselves and do not seek help. This must change. Help is there and can be utilised to help you grow, express emotions, and get the help many need.
Furthermore Marcel Vige who is the head of equalities and improvement at the mental health charity Mind also echoes the work of T.Reham and the family connections that discourage people from seeking help. She states “many people feel the need to preserve the family’s reputation and status in such close-knit environments can lead them to remain silent about their own feelings. Previous research suggests that pushing those feelings down can lead to increased worry and can contribute to the disproportionately higher rates of self-harm within South Asian women”.
Safeena Khan from Bradford has spoken previously with the Asian Standard in discussing her battle with mental illness, as she encourages others to do the same. She is an example of an advocate for mental health within the South Asian community who believes speaking out can help those who need it.
Ms Khan discusses her religion and culture, and sadly how she lost her mother who was 58, due to ongoing meatal health issues. She states “There is no shame in getting help with mental health. I think people, especially from the Asian community, need to speak up about it. It is okay to be sad, it is okay to be emotional, it is okay to be upset, you just need to let it out and not hold it in. I think most people don’t want to share.” This is an important message for the South Asian community to seek help if you need it are people to assist you in your time of need.
This is the aim that the Association for Suicide Prevention and World Health Organisation hopes this annual day achieves. World Suicide Prevention Day is to get people talking, to know that help is there, and to try and prevent suicide through the promotion of care services.
If you are struggling with wellbeing or mental health, then reach out to one of these great charities now, for help and support.
Mind – Mental Health Charity. Contact number 0300 102 1234
Mental Health UK 020 7840 3101
Better Help – get in touch via contact@betterhelp.com to find out more on their services and find what’s right for you.
