When you type in the word “suicide”, Google automatically directs you to your nearest helpline and states “Help is available”.
“I wish they spoke up” is what people say when they mourn suicide. People tend to assume that those feeling suicidal should just say so. Often times, it is not easy. Society has stigmatized talking about mental health; people prefer to die in silence than be judged. It is a glaring reality that those that need help are not getting it because of the taboo.
Those with suicidal thoughts and feelings cannot explain why they feel the way they do. They fear if they do open up about their struggle, they won’t be able to control the outpour of their emotions. They’re tired of being stuck in their suffering and want to put an end to it. They feel alone and helpless. They don’t want to burden their loved ones and think they’d be better off without them.
According to WHO statistics, suicides account for 1.4% of deaths worldwide. Close to 800,000 people die due to suicide every year. There are indications for each adult who died, there may have been more than 20 others attempting suicide.
In Islam, suicide is Haram, a major sin.
“… And do not kill yourselves (nor kill one another). Surely, Allah is Most Merciful to you. And whoever commits that through aggression and injustice, We shall cast him into the fire, and that is easy for Allah”. (Quran, 4:29-30).
If one kills themselves to escape calamities of this world then what of the hellfire? A believer should remember that this world is a test; Allah states that He does not burden a soul with more than it can bear (Quran, 2:286).
The believer needs to be patient with his trial, seek comfort and closeness to Allah through his prayers. Remember that he is not the only one who is suffering. He can recollect the trials of the Prophets and their people and remember he too can make it through. Allah will not let his suffering go to waste.
Aisha (RA) reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “No believer is pricked by a thorn or more but that Allah will raise him one degree in status or erase a sin.” (Source: Sahih al-Bukhari 5317, Sahih Muslim 2572)
People are better able to cope when they have at least one person who believes in them, wants the best for them, and in whom they can confide. It also helps to remember that most problems are temporary and can be overcome.
If you are struggling with problems, try to confide in someone you trust with what’s going on. Be around people who are caring and positive. Ask someone to help you solve the problem that you’re facing. You can always approach a therapist or a counsellor if you are feeling down and depressed – or if you lack a strong support network or feel you can’t cope.
Those with the intention to help, watch out for the warning signs:
- talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or alone
- saying they have no reason to go on living
- making a will or giving away personal possessions
- searching for a means of doing personal harm, such as buying a gun
- sleeping too much or too little
- eating too little or eating too much, resulting in significant weight gain or loss
- engaging in reckless behaviours, including excessive alcohol or drug consumption
- avoiding social interactions with others
- expressing rage or intentions to seek revenge
- showing signs of extreme anxiousness or agitation
- having dramatic mood swings
- talking about suicide as a way out
It can seem overwhelming but getting someone the help they need may prevent a suicide attempt or death. If you know someone or suspect someone who may be considering suicide, talk to them about your concerns. Begin the conversation in a way that is not judgmental and not a confrontation. Make sure to stay calm and speak in a reassuring tone. Acknowledge their feelings, offer support and encouragement. Tell them that help is available and they can get better with treatment.
Do not minimize their problem or attempt at shaming them to change their mind. This will not solve the issue. Their resolve might only get stronger. You can always get help from a crisis or suicide prevention hotline.
References
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/suicide
https://www.abuaminaelias.com/dailyhadithonline/2010/09/29/believer-reward-hardship-pain/
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/suicide.html
https://medlineplus.gov/suicide.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/suicide-and-suicidal-behavior
https://islamqa.info/en/answers/111938/ruling-on-committing-suicide-because-of-depression
