Every September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day is commemorated. For what reason? What are the numbers in Colombia? What signs does a person with ideas or attempts show? Here we tell you.
Suicide is surrounded by stigmas, myths and taboos. When a case occurs, the affected person is not only the person, family, friends and close friends are also involved.. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reports that each year, more than 703,000 people take their own lives after numerous suicide attempts, which corresponds to one death every 40 seconds.
Why the commemoration?
Since 2003, the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has promoted “World Suicide Prevention Day” (WDS) every September 10 with the aim of Raise global awareness that suicide can be prevented.
The theme for this 2022 is: “Create hope through action” and reflects the need for collective action to address this urgent public health issue. We can all take steps to prevent suicide in the Region.
“Focusing on suicide prevention is especially important to create social connections, promote awareness and offer hope. Reaching out to loved ones about their mental health and well-being could save their lives,” PAHO states.
Key data from the Americas region
- In 2019, 97,339 people died by suicide in the regionand it is estimated that 20 times that number may have made suicide attempts.
- Around the 79% of suicides in the region occur in men. The age-adjusted suicide rate among men it is more than three times higher than that of women.
- Suicide is the third cause of death among young people between 20 and 24 years old In the americas. People ages 45 to 59 have the highest suicide rate in the Region, followed by those ages 70 and older.
Figures in Colombia
What are the signs that indicate that a person might attempt suicide?
If you identify any of these signs, act calmly, show your support and that you are there to listen to them. It is important to seek the support of a professional.
You should be alert if you notice:
- Prolonged feelings of anxiety and sadness.
- If someone starts to sort out their affairs, give away their belongings, say goodbye, write a will or suicide notes.
- Increased irritability, negativity, desire to die, loss of interest in things you previously enjoyed, disturbance in sleep or appetite.
- The presence of thoughts or plans of self-harm in the last month, or their realization during the last year.
- Serious emotional disturbances.
- Agitation or extreme violence.
- Uncommunicative behavior.
- Social isolation.
When a person talks about thoughts related to suicide, or if they tried to commit suicide, there is a risk that it will happen again. Remember that our help channels are always open to listen to you, call us or write to us at 3330333588.