Suicide can be prevented
The latest global statistics reveal that someone commits suicide every 40 seconds. Suicide means the act of taking one’s life. Most people who take their lives are usually victims of mental illnesses such as depression, have terminal illnesses or have recently experienced devastating personal loss.
Mental health experts estimate that between 17 and 20 per cent of the general population in the country suffers from depression yet only one in 20 accesses medical care in hospitals.
Suicidal Thoughts
According to Fred Mugisha, a counselling psychologist from Serenity Centre, Kampala, suicidal thoughts range from a a fleeting consideration to a detailed plan to end one’s life and can occur when someone is undergoing stress or experiencing depression.
In most cases, these thoughts are temporary and can be treated, but in some cases, they place the individual at risk of attempting or commiting suicide.
“All human beings have an innate desire to live. I believe this is one of our strongest instincts. So when an individual decides to or attempts to end their life, it means they are experiencing pain so intense and unimaginable and should be treated with compassion not ridicule and condemnation,” Mugisha notes.
He cautions individuals having suicidal thoughts not to consider themselves weak but to understand that sucidal thoughts are an indication of deeper emotional or mental problems that need to be taken care of urgently.
“We invest a lot of time and resources into our finances, careers and relationships but ignore our mental and emotional health which is tragic. We are constantly exposed to stress and anxiety inducing situations yet we never get opportunities to adequately and appropriately deal with these issues. When we ignore our emotional and mental health, they simmer and fester and eventually pour out with such an intensity that we are unable to handle, some drink to numb it while others end up seeking a means to end it all,” Mugisha notes.
Tracy Adokorachi a survivor confirms Mugisha’s opinion saying she felt committing suicide was the only possible solution to her suffering at the time.
Over a decade ago, Adokorach, 32, tried to take her life but was rescued by doctors.
“I cannot point out a single challenge that pushed me over the edge; it was a combination of so many horrendous, awful circumstances that darkened my thoughts. To decide to end your life in order to escape the pain of living actually takes a whole lot of courage. I am one of the lucky ones whose attempts failed and I am now glad I did not succeed. In hindsight nothing is worth taking your own life for,” Adokorach shares.
Steven Bongo another survivor reveals that suicide is an illness that takes over one’s life leaving them powerless. He says once he started having suicidal thoughts he started seeing reasons why he should be dead.
“It is like a form of darkness that consumes your light until you cannot see through it. I heard voices constantly telling me that I was a failure and a disappointment to my family and myself. At my lowest moment I believed this lie and it almost cost me my life. I want you to know that those voices are wrong. You are bigger than the lie and you deserve to live. Ending your life will not solve the problem or challenge, you have a fighting chance to overcome them when you are alive,” Bongo encourages.
Causes
Dr James Roger Nsereko, a senior clinical psychologist at Butabika Hospital, notes that suicidal thoughts and tendencies occur when a person feels they are no longer able to cope with an overwhelming situation. This could stem from financial problems, death of a loved, a broken relationship, or a devastating or debilitating illness.
The most at risk are individuals are those aged 15-35 years. Although more women attempt suicide, more men achieve completion.
The risks become higher if the individual has one or all of the following illnesses; Anorexia nervosa , bipolar disorder Body dysmorphic disorder, borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder, gender dysphoria, or gender identity disorder, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Schizophrenia
Substance abuse, exposure to suicidal behaviour in others
Treatment
Suicide is preventable. Dr Nsereko says the first step to preventing suicide is seeking professional help whenever an individual feels overwhelmed.
“The doctor or psychologist will examine you and then recommend the proper form of treatment.
The doctor may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication depending on the need.
These can help you manage your symptoms. They can also recommend a support group or regular talking to a psychologist or counselor. If your risk of suicide is high, you may need to stay in an inpatient treatment facility,” he explains.
Mugisha emphasizes that many people consider committing suicide at some point in their lives. If you are having suicidal thoughts, know that you are not alone. You should also know that feeling suicidal is not a personal weakness or a form of madness. He encourages individuals to make emotional health a priority and calls upon the authorities to avail platforms where people can have access to mental and emotional help.
“Although more people are seeking psychiatric treatment, it is still taboo and people are afraid to open up about it because they fear societal stigma that can result from such admission. Suicide is a major health problem that needs to be in the forefront in the public narrative.
Let us diligently create suicide prevention awareness, it will save so many lives,” he urges.
When you have suicidal thoughts
Mugisha warns against trying to manage suicidal feelings on your own. He recommends seeking professional help and support from loved ones. Other ways one can overcome suicidal thoughts include;
Avoid drug and alcohol abuse
It may be tempting to turn to illegal drugs or alcohol during challenging times. However, doing so can make suicidal thoughts worse. It is critical to avoid these substances when you are feeling hopeless or thinking about suicide.
Change your outlook
No matter how bad your situation may seem, know that there are ways of dealing with the issues you face. Seek ways to inspire and keep your hope alive. Surround yourselves with supportive family and friends.
Pay attention to signs
Work with your doctor or therapist to learn about the possible triggers for your suicidal thoughts. This will help you recognize the signs of danger early and decide what steps to take ahead of time. It is also helpful to tell family members and friends about the warning signs so they know when you may need help.
Keep a journal to help you understand and manage your feelings.
Find ways to relieve stress, such as physical activity or talking with a friend.
Seek help at the first signs of depression.
Red flags
Dr Nsereko reveals that usually one can identify an individual having suicidal thoughts by what they talk about. However, it is possible for someone to hide their intentions until the last moment. “For instance someone can start hinting on taking journeys to far off places and begin saying farewell to friends.
Other major some of the symptoms include;
•Feeling or appearing to feel trapped or hopeless
•Feeling intolerable emotional pain
•Having or appearing to have an abnormal preoccupation with violence, dying, or death
•Having mood swings, either good or bad.
•Talking about revenge, guilt, or shame
•Experiencing changes in personality, routine, or sleeping patterns
•Consuming drugs or more alcohol than usual, or starting to drink when they had not previously done so
•Engaging in risky behavior, such as driving carelessly or taking drugsAcquiring a gun, medications, or substances that could end a life.
•Experiencing depression, panic attacks, impaired concentration
•Talking about being a burden to others
Severe remorse and self-criticism.
