Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, an international event observed annually since 2003 on September 10. Its purpose is to promote global efforts to prevent suicide.
Suicide is a profound tragedy that occurs when someone takes their own life, often in response to immense emotional pain and adversity. However, it's crucial to understand that suicide can be prevented.
Suicidal thoughts can affect people regardless of whether they have a diagnosed mental illness, though there is a connection between mental health issues and such thoughts. The reasons for suicide are complex, influenced by sociological, economic, psychological, and genetic factors.
"Every death by suicide is a tragedy that affects families, friends, and society as a whole." - Lynn Council's Margaret Bell, responsible for adult social care and health at Warwickshire County Council.
World Statistics
According to the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), over 700,000 people worldwide die by suicide annually, with nearly 77% of these cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). For every completed suicide, there are many more who attempt or contemplate it.
Suicide Rate by Country 2023
Suicide ranks as the fourth leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29. Pesticide self-poisoning is a common method, responsible for about 20% of global suicides, mostly in rural agricultural areas of LMICs. Other prevalent methods include hanging and firearm use.
Lesotho has the highest suicide rate globally, with 87.48 suicides per 100,000 people each year.
Antigua and Barbuda has the lowest, with only 0.4 suicides per 100,000 people annually.
Challenges in South Korea and Japan
South Korea has the world's fourth-highest suicide rate, partly attributed to suicides among elderly individuals, who may feel like financial burdens to their families as traditional caregiving norms shift. Students in South Korea also face high academic pressure and feel that they have brought shame to their families if they do not succeed. Alcohol use, sleep deprivation, stress, and poor social relationships also put students at an increased risk of suicide.
One of the most common methods of suicide in South Korea is carbon monoxide poisoning, and many prefer to jump from bridges. In Seoul, the Mapo Bridge has earned the nickname "Mapo Bridge" or "Suicide Bridge" due to the number of people who jump from it.
In Japan, middle-aged men who lose their jobs and can no longer provide for their families constitute a concerning demographic for suicides.
The Aokigahara Forest, situated at the base of Japan's Mount Fuji, is notorious for suicides, with numerous people ending their lives there annually.
The example of Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan faces a significant issue with suicides, especially among young people aged 14-30. However, this topic remains stigmatized in society and largely unaddressed by official institutions.
In a 2022 online survey conducted by the local publication "Hook," 14.5% of 159 Uzbekistani students reported attempting suicide, with 54.1% having had suicidal thoughts. Notably, a suicide attempt increases the risk of further suicidal acts by 30-40%.
Understanding the Causes
Suicide can be triggered by a multitude of factors, such as traumatic life events, emotional or physical abuse, relationship breakdowns, substance abuse, social isolation, mental disorders like depression, self-harm, chronic pain, financial troubles, youth, or middle age.
Why Suicide Prevention Matters
Addressing suicide prevention is vital because it's a global public health concern. Each life lost to suicide has a profound impact on families, communities, and societies. By comprehending risk factors, promoting mental well-being, and offering support and resources, we can work towards reducing suicide rates and saving lives.
What You Can Do
988 Suicide Crisis and Lifeline have developed 5 steps to support someone experiencing suicidal thoughts:
1. Ask them if they are thinking about suicide. Research shows that asking this question does not increase the risk of completed suicide and may not intensify suicidal thoughts.
2. Be present for them, either over the phone or in person.
3. Ensure their safety by limiting access to lethal means.
4. Help them connect with ongoing support.
5. Follow up with them, whether through a call, visit, text, or email, to let them know you're there for them.
"Life is a series of moments, both good and bad. The beauty of life lies in the fact that no matter how dark the moment may be, it can always turn brighter in the blink of an eye. Cherish the good moments, for they are the jewels of your existence, and remember, even in the toughest times, there is a glimmer of hope waiting to shine."
Free online training courses are available that will teach you the skills and confidence that talking to the person you are worried about can save a life. To learn more, visit the Zero Suicide Alliance website.
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