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“Creating Hope Through Action” is the triennial theme for the World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021-2023. This theme serves as a powerful call to action and reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and that through our efforts, we can encourage hope and strengthen prevention.

According to World Health Organisation, suicide is a major public health issue with far-reaching social, emotional, and economic consequences. It is estimated that there are currently more than 700 000 suicides per year worldwide, and we know that each suicide profoundly affects many more people.

As SIG workforce, we work with vulnerable people, and sadly, over the years, we have lost Participants and Residents due to suicide. Today, we are being reminded to create hope through action.

What action can we take to create hope?

• talk to Participants and Residents and ask if they are feeling suicidal – ask this if they are feeling low in mood and have history of suicide attempts
• Be there for someone when they are having suicidal thoughts
• If someone expresses suicidal thoughts, take it seriously and take action – contact their care team or 999 if they are actively suicidal
• Know the warning signs
• Inform Participants and Residents about the Samaritans

As part of taking action, learn about the warning signs. These may help you determine if someone is at risk for suicide, especially if the behaviour is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of the following signs, as listed by The Mental Health foundation – seek help.

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or procuring a weapon
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Extreme mood swings

Let’s continue to create hope by taking action!

Muriel Gutu

Group clinical Lead