Does your friend talk a lot about suicide?

Many people struggle with suicidal thoughts silently. Some might even joke about issues like depression but, the reality of suicide rates around the world is very dire.

Suicide is a global issue and here in Kenya particularly, there is a rising concern. If you can recall, in 2020 there was a shocking story of a six-year-old boy who committed suicide. It is very unfortunate the young boy did not get the help he desperately needed.

Although you may not be a trained specialist, each and every one of us can do something to help someone who is at risk of suicide.

This could be a spouse, friend or colleague on the verge of throwing in the towel.

If you notice that a loved one has recently been posting subliminal messages or making comments about ending their life, you need to act quickly.

Here is how:

Suicide isn’t something that you should take lightly. It might be normal for you and your friend to joke about everything but, this shouldn’t be one of them because they might actually be thinking of harming themselves.

Someone who has reached the point of commenting about ending their lives is in need of support. They are crying for help and you shouldn’t ignore the warning signs.

You should also help your friend get in touch with professionals. It’s better to seek help from people who know how to help someone suicidal instead of trying to handle a high-risk situation all by yourself.

You can connect them with professionals through Befriender’s Kenya 0722 178 177, Emergency Medicine Kenya Foundation 0800 723 253 or Niskize 0900 620 800.

If they aren’t open to talking to a counsellor right away, you should still encourage them to reach out.

Many people are usually so busy with their lives that they don’t have time to check up on their friends enough. This is sad because, for someone who is struggling with these suicidal thoughts, a simple call or text can help to divert those overwhelming feelings.

Right now you should prioritize your friend until they are stable enough to cope on their own again. They need to feel cared for and supported and as their friend, you should be there for them as much as you can.

Besides checking up on them, it’s important to simply be available. If they call you at odd hours, don’t ignore them because you never know if a missed call will end up being the last call.

Show them that someone cares and understands what they’re going through by doing your best to be available.

Active listening is very important in these situations. This isn’t the time to judge, condemn or offer solutions you assume will work because they are in a very sensitive emotional state.

Lightly encourage them to express how they are feeling and if they are comfortable doing so, listen patiently. Also, stay as calm as possible. Panic might make the situation worse.