Our Collective Responsibility: Suicide Prevention in Sri Lanka

September marks Suicide Awareness Month, a time when we, as a society, must confront an uncomfortable truth—Sri Lanka has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. The loss of life due to suicide is not just a personal tragedy but a reflection of the broader challenges we face as a community. It prompts us to ask: What more can we do? How can we, as individuals and as a society, take responsibility to prevent someone from feeling that ending their life is the only way out?

Understanding the Crisis

Suicide is often the result of deep emotional pain, mental health struggles, and a sense of hopelessness. In Sri Lanka, the high incidence of suicide can be linked to various factors, including economic hardships, societal pressures, lack of access to mental health services, and the stigma surrounding mental illness. These factors create a dangerous cocktail that pushes vulnerable individuals towards the brink.

Our Role as a Society

The first step in taking responsibility is awareness. We need to acknowledge that suicide is not just a private issue but a public health crisis that demands collective action. As a society, we must work to create an environment where mental health is prioritized, and where people feel safe to seek help.

1. Open Conversations: We need to break the silence around mental health and suicide. Encouraging open, non-judgmental conversations can help reduce the stigma that often prevents people from seeking help.

2. Support Systems: Strong community networks can be a lifeline. Whether it's family, friends, or colleagues, being there for someone—listening, offering support, and showing empathy—can make all the difference.

3. Education and Awareness: Increasing public awareness about the signs of depression and suicidal behavior is crucial. Educating ourselves and others about these warning signs can enable early intervention.

4. Accessible Mental Health Care: Advocacy for better mental health services and easier access to professional help is essential. As a community, we should support initiatives that aim to improve mental health infrastructure in Sri Lanka.

What Can You Do?

If you encounter someone who seems to be struggling, your actions can be pivotal. Here are some ways you can help:

- Listen Without Judgment: Sometimes, all a person needs is someone who will listen. Be that person who can offer a safe space for them to express their feelings.

- Ask Directly: Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions like, “Are you thinking about suicide?” This can be difficult, but it shows the person that you care and are taking their situation seriously.

- Encourage Professional Help: Suggest that they talk to a mental health professional and offer to help them find resources or accompany them to appointments if necessary.

- Follow Up: Check in regularly. Knowing that someone is consistently there for them can provide the strength to keep going.

Creating a Culture of Care

Preventing suicide is not the responsibility of one person or one organization; it is a collective effort. We all have a role to play in building a society where mental health is prioritized, where people are connected and supported, and where no one feels that taking their life is the only option.

As we observe Suicide Awareness Month, let us commit to being more aware, more compassionate, and more proactive. Together, we can save lives.

Let’s make mental health a priority in Sri Lanka.

Reach out, speak up, and be the difference in someone’s life.