Durban — Talking about suicide and difficult topics increases the likelihood of someone seeking help and reduces suicidal ideation.
Having a conversation around suicide can help to provide alternative views for someone struggling to see beyond their specific existing circumstances said Netcare Akeso’s crisis line and marketing manager Megan Gonsalves.
In a statement Netcare Akeso raised awareness on suicide prevention World Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday. Akeso is a mental health care wing of the Netcare group which provides tailored treatment according to a patient’s needs.
One call for suicide prevention could save a life and that suicide may be an uncomfortable topic – but talking about it is very necessary as it can help prevent tragic, untimely deaths, the statement said.
Ongoing awareness and public education to help reduce suicide rates and reach those who need professional support in time, Netcare Akeso said.
Gonsalves highlighted that suicide is complex and there is rarely a single deciding factor, however depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, as well as interpersonal conflicts or a crisis, are often underlying risk factors.
While some suicides are planned carefully months in advance, many appear to be impulsive and may be acted on within hours or minutes of being conceived. A study by the Harvard School of Public Health found that one in four survivors of almost lethal suicide attempts deliberated for less than five minutes before acting on the impulse, and a mere 13% of those interviewed had thought about suicide for more than a day, she said.
“Other studies suggest almost half of people attempt suicide within just 10 minutes of the thought entering their minds, while Australian research indicated 40% acted on suicidal thoughts within the first five minutes,” Gonsalves said.
Netcare Akeso said that suicide accounts for approximately 700 000 deaths each year worldwide. For each suicide, there are an estimated 20 suicide attempts. In 2019, suicide was the fourth leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds globally. It is estimated that one in five people has suicidal thoughts in their lifetime. South Africa is ranked in the top 10 countries by suicide rate with 23,5 suicides per 100 000 people, and this represents approximately 14 000 suicides each year.
The World Health Organization's goal for suicide is to decrease the rate by one-third globally by 2030. To achieve this, countries with high suicide rates must prioritise interventions, as they are proven to be effective.
Acting to intervene in the space of opportunity before somebody takes their life can be as simple as making a phone call. Netcare Akeso encouraged people not to hesitate to reach out to someone who may be at risk of suicide.
Netcare Akeso highlighted five practical steps when you are concerned someone may be at risk:
- Ask: Be direct in asking the person whether they are thinking about suicide or have plans to harm themselves.
- Be there: Listening without judgement is key to understanding more about what the person is thinking and feeling. Remember, this is not an easy conversation for them either. You don’t need to give advice; just listen and be there for them.
- Help them keep safe: Don’t leave the person alone. Where possible, reduce access to any harmful items or areas where suicide could be attempted. Asking the person if they have a plan can help to identify these factors and help keep them safe if suicidal thoughts occur.
- Follow up: Stay in touch with the person after the crisis or after they have contacted a professional. Ongoing support is important to mental health and wellbeing.
There are many resources and suicide helplines that can be contacted, including the Netcare Akeso 24 hour crisis line on 0861 435 787 and the South African Anxiety and Depression Group (Sadag) 24-hour suicide crisis helpline on 0800 567 567. Help guide the person to a safe place for support and, if possible, help them reach out to these resources.
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Daily News