World Suicide Prevention Day: Breaking the silence about mental health can save lives

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people around the world are affected by the tragedy of suicide and the grief of losing their loved ones. Yet, the stigma in society regarding open conversations about mental health and suicide is still strong. Struggles with mental health are the starting point of this tragedy and not addressing them early can cause irreversible damage. On World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10), there should be discussions on this issue and learning how to provide support to those in distress and break the silence around suicide.

Each one of us plays a vital role in saving precious lives. Sometimes, just talking to someone who needs some support can be very helpful. Learning how to talk to someone who is struggling internally is very important, especially if they are close to you. “When someone decides to open up about their challenges, it gives other people the confidence to share their struggles as well. Secondly, it creates a sense of belonging and care and the person struggling does not feel alone or isolated and it makes them feel like they are part of a community,” explains Dr Sneha Sharma, psychiatrist and co-founder of Anvaya Healthcare.

The stigma associated with mental health fades when discussions about the topic become a part of everyday life. Then, it becomes easier for people to seek help from others when they need it. This leads to early detection, which also improves the overall outcome. Expressing yourself is the first step towards accepting a problem you are facing in your life. Creative expressions such as painting, journaling or music can help a person feel and experience their emotions in different ways and understand them better. For someone struggling with mental problems, having a way to relieve their stress helps them enjoy their everyday life. Dr. Sneha said, “Having interests and hobbies, especially creating something meaningful, increases people’s self-esteem, makes them feel important and connected to others. These creative expressions help them express their deepest thoughts and feelings and also create a community of people who may share their pain and struggles.”

It’s important to approach people struggling with mental health problems with empathy and understanding. Listening without judgement, encouraging them to seek professional help, and being supportive in their healing process can make a significant difference. “Creating a safe environment where they can express themselves and validate their feelings can help them feel less alone. Promoting awareness and education about mental health can also help reduce stigma and foster a more supportive community,” says Dr. Arushi Dewan, clinical psychologist and founder of Coping Keys.

Using relaxation techniques, mental health awareness topics and discussions on the internet, credible websites coming from scientific bodies or established bodies like ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research), or scientifically proven psychological guidelines can help individuals suffering in small ways. Connecting with your culture or things that make you feel a sense of belonging can be the beginning of understanding mental health problems and working towards better health.