Suicide is a global public health crisis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 700,000 people lose their lives to suicide each year. This problem not only impacts those directly affected, but also has a devastating effect on families, communities and societies in general. Of these deaths, 77% occur in low- and middle-income countries, underscoring the urgency of addressing this crisis in contexts of economic vulnerability.
The Importance of Prevention
Suicide prevention is essential and possible. As Vanessa Muñoz, psychiatrist and medical director of the Padre Menni Hospital Center of Sisters Hospitallers, points out, “Suicide is one of the three leading causes of death worldwide and the leading cause of death in young people. It causes more than one million deaths each year. In 90% of these cases, the person was suffering from some kind of mental illness. But we already know that suicide prevention is possible.”
Muñoz also stresses the importance of addressing social, economic and cultural risk factors that are present in our daily lives, and that contribute to the increase in cases. “One factor, among many, that we at the Center are convinced to work on is information and education for prevention.”
Prevention Strategies
WHO has proposed the LIVE LIFE approach, which includes four key interventions for suicide prevention:
- Limit access to means of suicide: implement restrictions on toxic pesticides and firearms.
- Interact with the media: Promote responsible coverage of suicide.
- Develop social-emotional skills in adolescents: Foster coping skills to deal with stress and difficulties.
- Timely detection and management: Identify and care for people with suicidal behavior quickly and effectively.
Here’s what you need to know:
It’s okay to talk about suicide. Asking someone if they are thinking about suicide does not prompt them to act, but often reduces anxiety and helps them feel understood.
Warning signs to watch for:
- Drastic mood swings.
- Social withdrawal.
- Expression of thoughts or plans to end your life.
- Comments such as “No one will miss me when I’m gone” or “I have no reason to live”.
- Searching for methods to commit suicide.
- Farewells from family and friends.
- Gifts of prized possessions.
At Sisters Hospitallers we have been working for over 143 years in our health care facilities to prevent suicide and eliminate the stigma associated with it. Seek help! If you or someone you know is at risk, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Timely intervention can save lives.