ZERO MALE SUICIDE
Celebrating International Men’s Day; Celebrating the valuable contributions of Men and Boy’s all around the world.
November 19th, a day to re-emphasize one of the six pillars of The International Men’s Day which is to focus on men’s health and wellbeing. Considering this, let’s delve into the reality of male suicide globally and explore how prioritizing physical health can be a crucial step in preventing this tragic outcome.
Suicide is an act of self-harm with an intent to take one’s life. It could begin with ideas about death, wishing they were dead by suicide, or even imagining what life would be like for friends and family without them around. These ideas are not usually persistent but can be common in people with mental disorders or those with difficult life circumstances (Suicidal Ideation: Mental Health Literacy).
Globally, the age-standardized suicide rate was 2.3 times higher in males than in females (Suicide worldwide in 2019: Global Health Estimates). In a report published by the Punch Newspaper on 31st January 2023, the number of Nigerians who committed suicide were 79 (70 Men and 9 Women respectively) furthering emphasizing the high rates of male suicide not just in Nigeria, but across the world.
WARNING SIGNS
Recognizing warning signs is crucial for early intervention and support. These include but are not limited to:
- Withdrawal from family, friends and society.
- Increased substance misuse.
- Dramatic mood changes including agitation or intense anxiety.
- Frequent feelings and expression of no sense of purpose in life.
These are causes for concern and one should seek immediate help from a mental health professional.
Having a long-term physical condition can lead to social isolation, low self-esteem, stigma and discrimination. Regular medical check-ups play a vital role in preventing these long term and chronic ailments with studies showing a significant reduction in risk for those who prioritize their health. It is easy to assume that someone who is smart and successful would never die by suicide, however, mental stress caused by feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and loneliness can trigger suicidal thoughts.
It’s time to prioritize your well-being. Schedule a check-up today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier life.