Romanus Sindi
Depression, a pervasive mental health disorder, poses significant challenges to individuals and society as a whole. Self-destruction, the deliberate act of taking one’s own life, stands in stark contrast to the natural instinct for self-preservation.
It is important to recognise that most individuals who contemplate suicide actually desire to live. However, they feel trapped and unable to envision any alternatives to their problems. In many cases, these individuals exhibit clear warning signs of their suicidal intentions, yet society often struggles with knowing how to effectively respond.
Year after year, reports of suicide continue to surface, highlighting the pressing need for open discussions surrounding this sensitive topic. It is crucial to emphasise that discussing suicide does not promote or encourage suicidal behaviour. Rather, it serves as an educational tool to raise awareness and provide guidance on how to prevent such tragic outcomes.
Suicide is considered a private act, as only the individuals themselves possess the capability to truly understand and determine whether life is worth living. It is a deeply personal decision that often involves complex emotions, thoughts and circumstances. When someone chooses self-destruction, the repercussions extend beyond the individual, affecting their surviving family members as well. The loss of a loved one to suicide can be devastating for those left behind. Moreover, these family members may also be at a heightened risk of self-destruction.
The symptoms of depression can manifest in various ways, and individuals who are depressed often exhibit extreme hopelessness, irritability and agitation. They may frequently talk about suicide, and express thoughts of self-harm. Additionally, they tend to withdraw themselves from family members or friends, isolating themselves from social interactions. A person experiencing depression may also display a lack of interest in activities that were once pleasurable to them, even those they previously enjoyed.
Risk factors for self-destruction are often linked to mental disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, personality disorders, anxiety disorders and substance abuse. Mental disorders can significantly increase the likelihood of engaging in self-destructive behaviours. Substance abuse, including alcoholism and the use of benzos, can exacerbate feelings of despair and contribute to self-destructive tendencies.
Furthermore, financial difficulties can create overwhelming pressure, and lead individuals to contemplate self-harm as a means of escape. Relationship problems, whether romantic or familial, can also contribute to feelings of despair and hopelessness.
Additionally, bullying experiences can have a profound impact on an individual’s mental well-being, and increase the risk of self-destructive behaviours. Lastly, negative word-of-mouth experiences or rumours can further exacerbate feelings of isolation and distress.
The higher risk factor of self-destruction in students by parents or guardians is word-of-mouth. Individuals who exhibit symptoms of depression and have risk factors of suicide should be closely monitored, as they are at a higher risk of self-destruction.
Word-of-mouth refers to the spread of information or rumours through informal communication channels. When negative information or rumours about a student circulate through word-of-mouth, it can contribute to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem and increased vulnerability to self-destructive behaviours.
Parents and guardians have a crucial role in shaping the environment and support system for students. However, when they engage in negative word-of-mouth about their own child or other students, it can have detrimental effects on the mental health of those involved.
Preventive measures play a crucial role in mitigating the risk of depression. One effective approach is to avoid getting stressed, regardless of the situation we find ourselves in. It is important to seek help from individuals who can provide words of encouragement when we encounter stressful situations. However, it is advisable not to seek assistance from someone who may discourage us, as they may be facing similar challenges themselves.
In order to prevent self-destruction, it is essential to limit access to methods which individuals may employ to harm themselves, such as drugs, poisons, firearms and ropes that can be used for hanging. Additionally, improving economic conditions can contribute to reducing the likelihood of self-destruction. Furthermore, promoting careful media reporting about self-destruction and addressing substance misuse and mental disorders are vital preventive measures.
Overall, self-destruction should not be considered a viable solution because it not only harms oneself, but also constitutes an offence against family members and other individuals. Suicide is incapable of resolving any situation or problem; in fact, it perpetuates the issues at hand. In most cases of self-destruction, there are numerous unfulfilled obligations and people left to bear the consequences, even those who may not have been directly involved. It is crucial for parents to address their children who are pursuing academics with great care, as they often experience immense stress in their pursuit of academic achievement. Students often feel trapped within the demands of schools and universities, and parents or guardians should not be adversarial towards them.
* Romanus Sindi is a seminarian under priesthood formation. He possesses a bachelor’s degree in philosoph,y and is currently pursuing a post-graduate in secondary education.