From Silence to Support: A New Conversation.
Hii guys, I gave an Oratory Piece yesterday at an event held by Asido Foundation on MATTERS THAT MATTER and it was themed, ‘IT’S OKAY TO BE NOT OKAY’. I thought I’d share it with you. Here goes.
Wale, a very good friend and classmate who laughed and smiled with us all, was tragically found dead in his room, having taken his own life. It’s hard to comprehend how someone who seemed so full of life and joy could be struggling so deeply beneath the surface.
Suicide, a devastating monster that hides in the shadows, preys on the vulnerable and the struggling. It’s a beast that feeds on pain, hopelessness, and despair, growing stronger with each passing day. This issue is a matter that truly matters because it has a significant impact on our daily lives. According to the World Health Organisation as of 29th August 2024. More than 700,000 people die by suicide every year. For each suicide death, there are an estimated 20 suicide attempts.
Ending one’s life not only brings pain to those left behind but also denies the opportunity to experience the better days ahead. People should be encouraged to seek help, talk to someone, and keep holding on even when it feels impossible. This can lead to new perspectives and brighter outcomes as stated by the Suicide Prevention Centre.
The general public needs to know that when we break the silence, we create space for compassion and healing. We can help those in darkness see that there is light. But we do not just use our words to stop this menace, but through our actions.
According to a 2023 article by ScienceDirect.com, young people are often driven to suicide because they are met with judgment and dismissal when they try to open up about their struggles, rather than receiving empathy. However, in a study conducted by the National Institute of Health titled "Programs for Suicide Prevention," it states that mental health education programs in schools, workplaces, and communities – is key to suicide prevention. Just like the Asido Foundation is doing right now. Education on mental health issues encourages people to speak up without fear, as the conversation has already been initiated.
Furthermore, as published by the WHO on the 17th June 2022, creating a safe environment to prevent suicide can be achieved by establishing dedicated mental health services in local health care facilities. This will provide a confidential and non-judgmental space for individuals to openly discuss suicidal thoughts without fear of stigma. So you see that making our support system accessible enables people to share their struggles and receive immediate intervention as vulnerable individuals can speak up, seek help, and access life-saving resources.
We all have a part to play in this too as our response determines whether they go through with their thoughts or not. Perhaps, if we had paid more attention to Wale, we could’ve noticed the signs and helped out. Wale’s death is a painful reminder that we never truly know the battles others are facing, even when they appear happy. It is a profound loss, and is shows the importance of checking in on each other, offering support and creating spaces where people feel safe to talk about their pain.
Wale’s memory will live on, and may his passing remind us all to be more compassionate and vigilant toward those around us.
No matter how difficult things get, life is full of potential for things to improve. And as Ada Adams once said, “There’s a light at the end of every tunnel.”
My name is Ajibowo Oluwatowalayo, a Public Health enthusiast. Thank you.
Hii againnnn, thanks for reading till the end. Please leave claps and comments and share too. It’s been a while here, I hope to see you guys more often, just like before. ☺
