Suicide: The Last Symptom (Part 1)
The Last Symtpom: Suicide
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines suicide as the deliberate act of taking one’s own
life, often driven by risk factors such as mental disorders, notably
depression, neurological disorders, cancer, and HIV infection. With an
estimated annual death toll of approximately 700,000 individuals, the gravity
of this phenomenon, where individuals feel compelled to end their own lives,
has prompted various schools of thought to offer explanations to comprehend why
people reach such extremes.
In the pursuit of understanding suicide, some
individuals tend to inject their religious or philosophical beliefs into the
discourse, potentially leading to misconceptions and biases surrounding the
subject. One common misconception is the notion that suicide victims are
displaying weakness by choosing this drastic course of action. In this article,
we aim to dismantle these misconceptions by presenting factual information on
the matter. Above all, it’s essential to recognize that suicide is typically
the ultimate manifestation of a series of complex factors that impact an
individual before they resort to such an extreme measure.
Facts and Stats
To delve into the intricate statistics surrounding
suicide rates would require an extensive report. Nevertheless, here are some
recent key statistics to consider. Notably, countries like Lesotho and
Singapore grapple with alarmingly high suicide rates. Lesotho stands out with a staggering rate
of 72.4 suicides per 100,000 people, while Guyana follows closely with a rate of 40.3 per 100,000. Other countries of concern include Lithuania and
South Korea, both of which also report high suicide rates. Turning our
attention to South Africa, it is ranked as the 10th highest globally and holds
the 3rd position on the African continent in terms of suicide rates, standing
at 23.5 per 100,000 people. This alarming statistic raises important
questions about the region itself, given that Lesotho, a neighboring landlocked
country with shared cultural elements, faces similar challenges.
Comparing these recent figures to data from 2005, a
noticeable shift is observed in Western European countries. Nations like
France, Germany, and Italy have witnessed a decrease in suicide rates over this
period. However, in Eastern European countries, rates remain significantly
elevated, particularly in Russia and Ukraine.
The United States of America has taken a different
trajectory compared to many other first-world nations. It has experienced an
increase in suicide rates, with the current rate standing at 16.1 per 100,000 people
Considering the statistics above, it becomes a
daunting task to pinpoint specific factors driving these trends. In 2005,
Western Europe and the USA had the highest suicide rates, which led to some
attributing this phenomenon to the rise in secular beliefs. Conversely, African
and Middle Eastern countries, known for their strong religious beliefs, tended
to experience lower rates due to religious prejudices and the associated stigma
surrounding suicide victims.
However, the present reality challenges such
simplistic explanations. Lesotho, Lithuania, and South Korea, despite their
significant economic, cultural, and social differences, share the grim reality
of high suicide rates. This suggests that religious prejudices alone do not
provide a comprehensive explanation, and the causes of suicide are more
universal and less tied to a specific region or belief system.
The Case for South Africa
It’s challenging to analyze South Africa’s suicide
statistics without considering the cultural factors that potentially influence
these numbers. Out of the 23.5 per 100,000 suicide rate, men bear a significant
burden, accounting for 12.6 per 100,000, while women account
for 5.4 per 100,000. This gender disparity could mirror
the deep-seated gender issues prevalent in the country, where men are often
expected to adhere to cultural norms of stoicism, silence, and a constant
display of machismo. Expressing one’s emotions as a man is frequently viewed as
a sign of weakness. In many cultures, such as the Xhosa culture, where rites of
passage grant men full masculated status, emphasizing their role as protectors
and heads of households, there is a risk of cultivating a culture of toxic
masculinity. This can discourage men from speaking up and seeking mental health
support, as these actions may be erroneously associated with femininity.
Milestones and prevention
While the topic of suicide may be somber, it’s
essential to highlight recent achievements in reducing suicide rates. Suicide,
often stemming from feelings of hopelessness, depression, and mental health
issues, underscores the need for awareness regarding critical subjects such as
mental health and depression. In the past, these topics were either brushed
aside or seen as signs of mental weakness. In religious contexts, they might
have been interpreted differently, potentially as signs of spiritual imbalance.
Today, there is greater awareness surrounding these issues, and countries like
Germany and France have seen a decline in suicide rates in recent years.
Therefore it is integral to continue to create the tools and safe spaces that
will enable other countries like South Africa to start the path of decreasing
their suicide rates. This calls for suicide prevention mechanism to be put in
place.
The initial step in suicide prevention involves
debunking prevalent myths associated with the concept.
Misconceptions worth noting:
·
Suicide
victims avoid seeking help before taking their own lives: Contrary to this belief, data
indicates that 50% of suicide victims have actually sought mental health
assistance within six months before their suicide. This highlights the crucial
need for easily accessible and reachable helplines.
·
Discussing
suicide can trigger suicidal thoughts: In reality, open conversations about these issues
and reducing the stigma associated with them encourage people to speak up about
their struggles and seek help. It’s vital to understand that suicide is not an
unstoppable force. While it’s unpredictable, it is preventable through exposure
to the right support systems and counseling.
·
Suicide is a result
of insanity or uncontrollable spiritual factors: Statistics reveal that most suicide victims take
this tragic step due to severe stress, hopelessness, and overwhelming emotional
pain. Recognizing these factors is crucial in crafting effective prevention
strategies and providing the necessary support to those in need.
Finding Hope: Suicide Prevention and Helplines for Support (Part 2)
In our initial release of the two-part series on suicide,
Timely Interactions brought attention to crucial statistics that form the
cornerstone of our examination of this pressing issue. To begin, we emphasized
the World Health Organization’s definition of suicide as the deliberate act of
taking one’s own life, often driven by risk factors such as mental disorders,
most notably depression, neurological disorders, cancer, and HIV infection.
Among the standout statistics we highlighted was
the staggering fact that nearly 700,000 lives are lost to suicide every year.
Alarming disparities exist, with countries like Lesotho, Guyana, and South
Korea reporting some of the highest suicide rates worldwide. South Africa,
ranking at number 10 with a suicide rate of 23.5 per 100,000 people,
underscores the urgent need for initiatives to prevent this crisis.
Part 2 of our series will delve into the prevention
tactics that countries and organizations can adopt and implement to combat this
grave issue. Below, we provide a preview of some of the prevention strategies
we will explore in depth.
Deconstructing Stereotypes
The concept of the tough, strong, and unemotional
man has its merits, such as its potential to contribute to societal protection.
However, we must also acknowledge the detrimental effects it has on men’s well-being.
This socially constructed idea of masculinity often leaves many men unable to
express their concerns or emotions, forcing them to bottle up their feelings
with no one to confide in. Addressing this issue starts with promoting a
culture that encourages open communication and dispels the notion that
discussing one’s feelings and emotions is solely a feminine trait.
Taking Heed of Warning Signs in Potential Victims
Recognizing when someone is at risk of suicide is
not always straightforward, but certain signs can help alert us to when
something is amiss. Individuals contemplating suicide often experience a stage
of suicidal ideation, characterized by frequent discussions about death, a
persistently gloomy outlook on life, and a sense of hopelessness. Other
behavioral patterns that may indicate a problem include increased alcohol and
drug use as coping mechanisms. Suicide victims may also have clinically
diagnosed mental health conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, or
bipolar disorder. Subtle signs that are easily overlooked might include sudden
efforts to get their affairs in order or noticeable changes in their behavior.
Identifying and educating people about these signs is a crucial step in the
right direction, helping individuals understand how to approach these
situations.
Speaking Up and Demonstrating Compassion
In many cases, potential suicide victims reconsider
their choices when they realize that people genuinely care about them. However,
approaching someone who may be contemplating suicide requires great care. We
emphasized in the first part of this series that cultural and religious biases
can cloud our understanding of suicide, potentially harming those we intend to
help. This harm can come in the form of labeling individuals as demonically
oppressed or weak when they display signs of severe hopelessness. Therefore,
here are some tips for effectively communicating with potential suicide
victims:
·
Be
yourself and act naturally: It’s essential to avoid making the individual feel
abnormal or like a special case.
·
Take
the person seriously: Disregard the notion that suicide victims are merely
seeking attention. Approach them with the understanding that they are on the
brink of a life-altering decision.
·
Demonstrate
compassion and let them know you care: As we’ve previously discussed, suicide
victims often lose all hope and feel as though they are alone in the world.
When addressing those who appear suicidal, approach them with an assuring
attitude and remind them that they matter, that they are loved, and that they
are cared for.
Seeking and Ensuring Accessible Help
Seeking help is one challenge; finding that help
when it’s needed is another. It is the responsibility of governments to ensure
the presence of an adequate number of helplines and counseling centers for
those in need. However, this responsibility extends beyond mere availability;
it encompasses accessibility and affordability as well. Therapy is a vital
resource for individuals struggling with various challenges, but its cost often
places it out of reach for many.
Governments, in collaboration with professionals
and social workers, must devise comprehensive strategies to bridge this gap.
These strategies should include not only making help readily accessible but
also ensuring its affordability. It is imperative that governments implement
initiatives that educate the public on the necessary steps to take when
encountering potential suicide victims who exhibit warning signs. By doing so,
we can empower communities to respond effectively to those in crisis,
ultimately reducing the incidence of suicide.
Helplines for South Africa:
·
24
HR HELPLINE: 0800 12 13 14
·
SUICIDE
CRISIS LINE: 0800 567 567
·
SADAG
COUNSELING: MON-SUN, 8AM-8PM: 011 234 4837
A miscarriage is a devastating event in which a
woman experiences the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week.
Symptoms such as bleeding, cramping, low back pain, and the release of fluid or
tissue often accompany this heartbreaking experience. It’s important to note
that not all instances of bleeding signal a miscarriage, and some women may not
exhibit noticeable symptoms. While most miscarriages do not necessitate
treatment, in some cases, medical intervention might be required if fetal tissue
remains in the body.
The causes of miscarriage are not always fully understood. One common cause, accounting for about half of miscarriages, involves the embryo receiving an abnormal number of chromosomes from the egg or sperm. Moreover, the risk of miscarriage tends to increase with maternal age.
In South Africa, miscarriages are more common than
many may realize. Statistics indicate that before the 20th week of pregnancy,
bleeding occurs in about one-fifth of documented pregnancies, and over half of
these pregnancies end in miscarriage (Everett, 1997). Miscarriage is not just a
medical occurrence but also a significant social event, influenced by social
interactions that shape the experiences of those who go through it (Opitz,
1987; Letherby, 1993; Van der Sijp, 2010). It transforms into a medical event
when most women seek healthcare after experiencing a miscarriage (Pincombe et
al., 2015).
Research in South Africa delves into the narratives
of women who have experienced miscarriages, presenting a deeper understanding
of this social construct. Ten women between the ages of 19-45 from diverse
cultural and racial backgrounds shared their stories, alongside insights from
three healthcare professionals working in maternal healthcare. These narratives
emphasize the emotional experiences of women post-miscarriage, illuminating the
necessity to prioritize and address their emotional needs following such an
event.
While maternal healthcare in South Africa has seen
positive transformations, miscarriages still contribute to maternal deaths. The
support and relationship with partners or spouses following a miscarriage are
crucial for recovery and healing. Cultural interpretations and value systems
continue to influence the understanding of a miscarriage. Addressing emotional
needs becomes imperative for healing after pregnancy loss, as feelings of
grief, guilt, shame, and loneliness often accompany this experience.
Miscarriage, despite its prevalence, remains a
silent struggle for many. Couples may not feel comfortable sharing their grief,
while friends may hesitate to inquire, perpetuating a cycle of isolation and
loneliness. However, discussing these experiences, seeking support from loved
ones, and connecting with pregnancy loss support groups can be profoundly helpful
for those dealing with this emotional challenge.
World Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day –
A Global Perspective
World Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day
is a global healthcare event celebrated on the 15th of October every year to
raise awareness regarding Pregnancy loss, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS),
and infant death, which include miscarriage, stillbirth, and newborn mortality.
On this day, various local, national, and
international organizations come together and organize events, educational
programs, and various activities to create awareness regarding the long-term
knowledge gained that could improve education and preventive efforts, which may
aid in decreasing the frequency of unfortunate deaths of infants.
Importance of World Pregnancy & Infant Loss
Remembrance Day
Miscarriage is the most prevalent cause of
pregnancy loss. Pregnancy loss is defined differently in different countries,
but a baby who dies before 28 weeks of pregnancy is generally called a
miscarriage, while babies who die at or beyond 28 weeks are called stillbirths.
Nearly 20 lakhs babies are stillborn each year, and many of these deaths are
avoidable. However, even in developed countries, miscarriages and stillbirths
are not systematically recorded, suggesting that the numbers could be
substantially higher.
Miscarriages can occur for various causes,
including fetal abnormalities, the mother’s age, and infections, many of which
are preventable, such as syphilis and malaria; however, pinpointing the
particular cause is sometimes difficult.
It is estimated that as many as 26% of all
pregnancies end in infant loss, and up to 10% of clinically recognized pregnancies.
Furthermore, 80% of early pregnancy loss occurs in the first trimester. After
12 weeks of pregnancy, the risk of miscarriage reduces. Many stillbirths have
unclear reasons. Stillbirth occurs in families of all ethnicities, races, and
socioeconomic backgrounds and in women of all ages.
Maternal age is a significant determinant of
miscarriage risk. The probability of miscarriage before 20 weeks gestation in
women aged 20 to 30 is 8.9%. This increases to 74.7% for women over the age of
40.
Prior obstetrical history is another key predictor
of early pregnancy loss. The probability of miscarriage in a future pregnancy
is around 20% after one miscarriage, 28% after two consecutive miscarriages,
and 43% after three or more consecutive miscarriages.
Women have varying levels of access to healthcare
services; hospitals and clinics worldwide in many countries are frequently
under-resourced and understaffed. As diverse as the experience of losing a baby
may be, stigma and guilt emerge as similar themes worldwide. As these
first-person tales demonstrate, mothers who lose their kids are made to remain
silent about their loss, either because miscarriage and stillbirth are still so
common or because they are thought to be unavoidable, so World Pregnancy &
Infant Loss Remembrance Day is established to create public awareness of
pregnancy loss, and the importance of acknowledging their lives and the impact
it has on greater families.
On this day, in honour of Pregnancy and Infant Loss
Remembrance Day, around the world people light a candle at 7 p.m. in their own
time zones to create a wave of light in memory of babies lost to pregnancy and
infant loss.
History of World Pregnancy & Infant Loss
Remembrance Day
In 2002, Robyn Bear, Lisa Brown, and Tammy Novak
started the movement by petitioning the federal government to recognize World
Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day on October 15. In 2006, on
September 28th, the House of Representatives finally approved National
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.
Preventive measures to reduce the risk of Pregnancy
& Infant Loss
Taking care of the body is the best thing one can
do to maintain a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy.
Some of the tips to prevent Pregnancy & Infant
Loss include:
·
Attending
all prenatal care appointments
·
Maintaining
a healthy weight
·
Avoiding
risk factors for Pregnancy & Infant Loss like drinking alcohol and smoking
cigarettes
·
Taking
a prenatal vitamin
·
Getting
regular activity and eating a nutritious diet
·
Managing
stress
Mental Well-being
Addressing the topic of miscarriages is crucial for
raising awareness about a sensitive and often stigmatized issue that profoundly
affects many women and families. It is imperative to dismantle the stigma and
shame associated with losing a baby during pregnancy, recognizing that these
experiences are common and emotionally challenging. Open discussions about
miscarriages can play a vital role in providing support, understanding, and
appropriate care for those navigating through this traumatic event. By fostering
open conversations, we aim to break down barriers, ultimately reducing the
sense of isolation that many individuals and families face.
Healing
The process of healing is deeply personal, with
each individual experiencing the loss of a baby in a unique way. There is no
right or wrong approach to healing, emphasizing the importance of embracing and
acknowledging one’s feelings. Allowing oneself the time to feel and validating
those emotions is a crucial step.
Rest and replenishment in the days or weeks
following a loss are vital; it is essential to prioritize self-care during this
period. Holistic support involves opening up to your support systems—lean on
your partner, spouse, family, friends, and professionals. Take time to identify
what self-care means for you, whether it involves journaling, resting, engaging
in activities like running, or channeling creative energy.
For those supporting a loved one who has suffered a
loss, practicing empathy is key. Avoid judgment and unsolicited advice;
instead, focus on listening and being present. Sometimes, the simple act of
being there can speak volumes and provide comfort during a challenging time.
When you look at me, what do you see? When you see me walking,
what do you feel? As you hear my voice, what do you hear? Is it vulnerability,
is it power, or is it the sex appeal that would draw you to me? Let me help you
– I am not one thing; I am many things. I am a mother, a daughter, a
professional, a lover, a writer. I am a woman. A woman of great courage for the
things I have endured and overcome. I am a woman. A woman of great potential
for the future that awaits with so many possibilities. And trust me when I say
this sentiment is the same for so many other women. Our appearance should not
be a hindrance; instead, it is an armor we wear with pride. And yet, at times,
we are easily judged or dismissed by the way we walk, talk, and dress –
superficial, yes, but it’s true!
For Women’s month, I focus on the power a woman holds and the
wealth of knowledge she imparts to others each day. My name is Shingi West, and
I am passionate about helping people reconnect and restore their self-awareness
and identity, develop talents and potential, build human capital, and
facilitate employability, as well as improve their quality of life, which
contributes to the realization of hopes and dreams.
Women all over the world have had many difficulties, not only
because of their genetic makeup but because of their circumstances –
circumstances of war, poverty, abuse, and unemployment. All these issues play a
role, and the losses suffered and the pain inflicted on some of these ladies
are unimaginable. And through all these calamities of life, the strength of a
woman grows – her resilience, her passion, her love, her beauty – truly
continues to glow from within, and she becomes a beacon of light for others.
The power of a woman is respectful, truthful, feminine,
unashamed, intimate, emotional, and transparent. It means that using our
strengths as women with unmistakable confidence is what will propel us to the
top if that’s where we want to be. It means using power and authority
responsibly and managing the hierarchy with respect for all concerned. It means
creating spaces for power sharing across generations to uplift women. It means
holding space to pause and be safe. And at no time should we allow our personal
nor our professional spaces to degenerate into sites of oppression and
undermining of other women. It means trusting our intuition.
All this power is what will set us apart and make us positively
resilient and true advocates of growth.
In conclusion, women are multifaceted and powerful beings,
capable of achieving great things despite the challenges they face. During
Women’s Month and beyond, let’s celebrate the strength, resilience, and
potential of women worldwide. Together, we can create a more inclusive and
empowering future for all.