Changing the narrative on suicide

Suicide prevention

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed every year on September 10 to draw attention to this important public health issue globally and to disseminate the message that suicides are preventable.
 
Established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the day aims to focus attention on the issue, reduce stigma, and raise awareness among organisations, government, and the public, giving the singular message that suicides are preventable.
 
In honour of World Suicide Prevention Day today, Sarawak Tribune had the opportunity to speak with Dr Ismail @ Abdul Latif Drahman, visiting consultant psychiatrist of Normah Medical Specialist Centre (NMSC).

Dr Ismail @ Abdul Latif Drahman

 
Question: Could you provide the number of suicides or attempted suicides that have occurred in Sarawak (if any), and if not, perhaps in NMSC? In comparison to the previous year, how is the trend going?
Answer: Unfortunately, we do not have any data for that, and as of now, NMSC has no record of patients with attempted suicide.
 
Based on factors such as age, gender, occupation, economic standing, and others, who is more prone to commit suicide?
Male of older age with multiple medical problems.
 
What are the primary reasons why people, especially in Sarawak, attempt or commit suicide?
There are multiple factors since the socioeconomics in Sarawak are diverse. Some of the reasons include chronic illness and financial difficulties; some may be relationship issues or psychiatric illnesses such as depression.
 
Could you describe a healthy mental condition?
A healthy mental condition is where one is able to balance in life and is physically healthy, mentally stable, and spiritually strong.
 
When a person is at their lowest, how can he or she remain in good mental health?
A human being is not an island; we need close friends and supportive family. We need to talk and share our conditions with close friends or family in times of difficulty or even happiness.
 
What are the main mental health conditions that have the potential to cause suicide?
There are two primary conditions, namely depression and psychotic illness.
 
The stigma around suicide is still very present, particularly in Sarawak. How can we best educate our people about the fact that suicide is a real problem that requires public support?
To address this issue, we need to educate our public about mental health and illness. We also need to decriminalise suicidal acts — a person who commits suicide is not criminal; they need care and support emotionally.
 
In addition, if we ever encounter a person who has stress, anxiety, or depression, we need to encourage them to talk to someone they trusted or just simply lend our ears and shoulders.
 
Lastly, we need to educate our public that suicide is not a mental problem — people who have the thoughts of committing suicide need care and help emotionally.
 
The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026 is ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’ with the call to action ‘Start the Conversation’. Could you elaborate on this theme, particularly the significance of conversations?
Changing the narrative on suicide means to increase awareness about reducing the stigma of mental illness or even suicide and transforming how we perceive this complex issue.
 
Changing the narrative requires systemic change as well. It’s about shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support. It means advocating for policies and legislation that prioritise mental health, increase access to care, and provide support for those in need.
 
Meanwhile, starting the conversation means encouraging the person to ventilate their feelings through talking to trusted people and having a good conversation.
 
By starting conversations, we can break down barriers and raise awareness, check in with a friend or loved one, share personal stories, and advocate for mental health resources and support services. Every conversation, no matter how small, contributes to a more supportive and understanding society.
 
Are there any programmes at NMSC to assist those who have suicidal tendencies?
At NMSC, we have organised a number of exhibitions on mental health awareness and information on the importance of talking about suicide issues and life stresses.
 
Apart from that, our psychiatrists also provide comprehensive mental health assessments, counselling, and treatment. Our wide range of inpatient and outpatient programmes deliver personalised care that is catered to help every individual meet their needs.
 
Our treatment plans are designed to address even the most complex issues with compassion, respect, dignity, sensitivity, and understanding. Every patient’s case is treated with the utmost confidentiality.