It is not a topic that is openly and freely discussed without fear of being stared at or judged, but, it is something that ought to be spoken about and understood because it is real. It has become and is becoming an issue that we are faced with today.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) defines Suicide as death caused by self-directed injurious behaviour with intent to die as a result of the behaviour. It also defines a suicide attempt as a non-fatal, self-directed, potentially injurious behaviour with intent to die as a result of the behaviour. A suicide attempt might not result in injury.

Generally speaking, suicide is the second largest leading cause of death among young people worldwide, and right here in the Caribbean, there appears to be a growth in the number of young males attempting and committing suicide, and, this begs many questions.

It is believed that the majority of suicide or attempted suicides occur between the ages of 25 and 44 in the Caribbean. However, in recent times there have been reports of younger persons have been attempting suicide.

According to information received from the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF), in 2017 a total of six deaths were recorded for the year, and so far for this year, there have been two. And, this is two too many. Although the numbers may seem relatively low, compared to some of the more developed countries, and even in our neighbouring islands, we must take a stance on this issue. We need to do something about this as soon as we possibly can. Otherwise, this can become a serious trend that we may not be able to amend.

As a nation that claims to be Christian, the hypocrisy that underpins some of our problems will remain just that until we come to realise that we as a society are responsible for our brothers and sisters. Sometimes simply having someone trustworthy to confide in can be one of the most comforting feelings in the world, but, this is also something that is taken for granted.

Suicidal ideation refers to thinking about, considering, or planning suicide. It can occur when a person feels like they are unable to cope with challenges and problems they may have going on in their lives. Not everyone who thinks about suicide commits the act, but it is important to lend a listening ear and take persons seriously when they speak about suicide.

Although many symptoms can be displayed by a person who is experiencing suicidal thoughts, many persons can miss them.  Some symptoms, according to researchers include hopelessness, racing thoughts, insomnia or oversleeping, mania, loss of appetite or overeating, loneliness, alcohol abuse, excessive fatigue or low self-esteem.

In the event of suicide deaths, most persons tend to speculate why someone would resort to such a drastic measure. Some even consider those who commit suicide as selfish, failures or weak, most times without knowing the full situation. Yes, it is the most permanent act of coping, or someone’s inability to cope with something, but, people need to understand that persons who commit the act or think about committing the act rarely do it spontaneously.

It is fair to say that those left behind are usually shocked and left mournful and pondering about what they missed and or what they could have done differently. It is natural for persons to experience a range of emotions including shock and grief. It is important to note that there is no right or wrong way to deal with one’s emotions. Therefore, it is important to find yourself and find your way.

Depending on the proximity of the relationship with the deceased, the initial stage of grief may vary. Elisabeth Kubler Ross & David Kessler in their research and publications indicate the five stages of grief which are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Sometimes, especially in cases of suicide, the order of these may vary considerably. Some never fully accept the loss and live in constant denial or anger stages.

In the Caribbean, because suicide is not as prevalent, there appears to be a stigma attached to those who are left behind. There is a notable and obvious stigma in our society when it comes to talking about suicide, and this makes it a subject that people choose to avoid.

Earlier this year, health professionals in Grenada sought to establish a Suicide Prevention Programme. This, therefore, tells us that the authorities recognised that there is indeed a problem among our young people and have some interest in helping persons contemplating suicide. One such professional is Dr Hazel Da Breo, a well-known Psychotherapist, and Child Protection Specialist who is the Founder of the Sweet Water Foundation, which is designed to provide 24-hour assistance for persons contemplating suicide, victims of sexual violence and or child sexual abuse. Dr Da Breo’s Foundation can be reached at 1-473-800-4444 OR 473-537-7867 (STOP) OR helpline@Sweetwaterfoundation.ca.

Let’s come together to help save lives today! Suicide is real!