Lets educate ourselves..

On suicide…


Definition

Growing up i never heard much about suicide. My family is very open minded — Like many — it could have been discussed. The only reason i feel it was not addressed is because its been dubbed that “suicide” is not part of our African culture. This ideal doesn’t come from my household, but its the connotation everyone around me seems to give. Now,

Incidence of suicide tends to be under-reported due to both religious and social pressures, and possibly completely unreported in some areas. Since the data might be skewed, comparing suicide rates between nations is statistically unsound. For example attempted suicide is illegal in Nepal and people who attempt suicide when caught are subject to imprisonment, fines or both; therefore, any suicide figures for Nepal will underestimate the incidence.

With that in mind World Health Organisation has only suicide information for five African countries (none of which is in East Africa). The country in which i study, South Africa, to my surprise has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Standing 8th on the list South Africa experiences 8000 suicides annually. According to the World Health Organisation, in South Africa hanging accounted for 36,2 percent globally, followed closely by shooting (35 percent), poisoning (9,8 percent), gassing (6,5 percent) and burning (4,1 percent).

In Kenya it is estimated that 7% of the youth have tried to commit suicIde. Statistics of Kenyan suicides are almost impossible to find due to its taboo nature. Another reason there are no statistics is the fact that in Kenya suicide is a criminal offence. Pastors and priests do not burry those who commit suicide and a trend is emerging of people burying their loved ones at night to avoid controversy.

A few years back the ‘s’ word creeped into my life. A young girl who used to go my high-school was the first person i knew who committed suicide. I did not know her well but looking back she was so young, the whole world was in front of her. I know that sounds cliché but it has so much truth. Recently i lost another friend who i felt had the whole world ahead of him as well. He was an intellect and taught me that in life your steps make footprints. That “being kind to everybody because you don't know what they are going through” is not just some internet quote, but is the only thing we can do to help one another. I don’t think any humans role on this planet is to diminish the quality of the life one can live. so tread lightly and share the good you have in you because you never know how much that could help someone. Energies are contagious.

I’m not an expert but i have summed up some advice from the internet that hopefully could help someone one day. There are several suicide warning signs;

  • Talking or writing about death or suicide.
  • Withdrawing from family and friends.
  • Feeling hopeless.
  • Feeling helpless.
  • Feeling strong anger or rage.
  • Feeling trapped — like there is no way out of a situation.
  • Experiencing dramatic mood changes.
  • Abusing drugs or alcohol.
  • Exhibiting a change in personality.
  • Acting impulsively.
  • Losing interest in most activities.
  • Experiencing a change in sleeping habits.
  • Experiencing a change in eating habits.
  • Losing interest in most activities.
  • Performing poorly at work or in school.
  • Giving away prized possessions.
  • Writing a will.
  • Feeling excessive guilt or shame.
  • Acting recklessly.

Once you have identified these signs the only advice the internet seems to sum up is be “compassionate”. LISTEN! LISTEN! LISTEN TO THEM! and fucking just be there. Be a friend and share a real human moment with them. Suicide is the most lonely way to die.. people feel trapped and alone and everybody needs someone to lean on…

Its crazy to think someone i just saw last week is not here anymore. Just like that. Just like that…He claimed the world was inhumane and evil and sadly everyday the things i learn/see support his claim…Ironically, from him i learn humanity. Humanity and humility. I promise to carry those virtues with me throughout life.

Important details:

Below are two links for suicide help in Kenya.