In India, the National Mental Health Survey 2015-16, revealed for one or more mental health issues, one in 20 Indians suffers from depression. It was estimated that, in 2012, India had over 258,000 suicides, with the age-group of 15-49 years being most affected. And the number only keeps increasing.
I often come across individuals creating jokes concerning self-harm or suicide. When I was in school, a friend of mine was suffering from depression. She joined us after grade 5 and was always under pressure concerning some school assignment or a very difficult examination or the teachers. The very fact that my classmates did not think twice before passing comments about her problems, the fact that they disregarded the effect their actions would have on her mind, showed me straight how established the stigma was, even within our generation. Most people do not see it as a big issue, and therefore it’s one thing that they will joke about.
A depressed person may not ask for help, but that doesn’t mean that help isn’t needed. People who give up on their lives don’t want to die—they just want to stop hurting. Suicide prevention starts with recognizing the warning signs and taking them seriously.
While friends and family may not be able to understand the victim’s state of mind, helplines are a nice new source where people can seek warmth without being exposed. Those people are the right ones:
A. They won’t judge you
B. They know exactly how it is
C. Your story won’t be made fun of.
It’s high time we realise the importance of giving moral support to those who are in need instead of bullying them. And of course if you’re afraid talking about your issues will get you bullied, resort to one of the help lines in your country. I’m sure they’ll be of great help.
To to end with a quote that is very inspiring:
“Positivity, confidence, and persistence are key in life, so never give up on yourself.” -Khalid
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