10/10/2019
WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2019
▶World mental health day theme for 2019 is su***de prevention.
▶Suicide can be defined as the act of purposefully taking one’s life.
▶According to WHO, almost every 40 seconds, someone loses their life.
▶Suicide is a global health problem and one of the main causes of death among youngsters, especially those aged between 15-29 years.
▶What are the primary reasons that drive young people to su***de?
Numerous reasons lead an individual, especially a young person to commit su***de and these include failure in studies, childhood trauma, family disharmony, violence, sexual abuse, cyberbullying and bullying.
▶However, what is more important is SU***DE PREVENTION and what can be done towards it. The issue deserves increasing attention especially with the rise in other mental health problems.
▶There can be many causes for a person to take this extreme step, but in most cases, the person gives out warning signs before committing su***de. It is important for us as family and friends to look out for these signs and protect our loved ones.
▶ Warning Signs
1. Social withdrawal
2. Focus on death
3. Despair
4. Making plans
5. Reckless behaviour
▶How can you help in su***de prevention?
If you do notice something strange, do not ignore it.
Try talking to the person and help them express their frustration in words.
Find ways for them to meet more people and do something different.
You should also encourage the person to talk to a professional mental health care expert.
If you are in a situation where someone threatens su***de, do not leave them alone.
Try to calm them down and call for help immediately.
