By: Ibrahim Mose
Every day on our screen and newspapers stories of suicide
Still find their way with those who have taken their lives leaving behind reasons to justify their acts.
Pain and stress pushes people to end their lives, not because they no longer see the need to live but simply because they are unable to cope with the stress and pain they are going through.
We all can pay a role in suicide prevention; we can make a difference by reaching out to suicidal individuals and helping them. The first step is by simply asking a person you are suspecting to be suicidal if they are thinking of such an act, being direct sometimes brings creates room for deeper conversations and they may end up sharing a lot with you.
Limiting their access to dangerous items by removing around them is the next step. Strive to know if the person has ever tried any self-harm before and the methods they applied, this will help you to know their items of temptation and you can remove them from their reach.
Help find a way to get them connected is another important step, try to be present physically and when you are unable to be present connect with them through calls, text messages and any other way that will show support and closeness to them.
Find resources for suicidal people is also very crucial. Try to find out from them if they are seeing a mental health professional and connect them with if not and help find support around them, in their villages or communities, work places, school etc.
Lastly follow up on them, this can be through visiting them, calling them regularly, texting them, sending them letters and cards, the regular follow up helps them to feel less isolated and this potential reduces their risk to suicide.
Suicide should not be an individual fight, we should all stand to fight it by choosing to prevent it that is the only way that we will win the fight and help save lives.