In this month alone, the newsrooms have reported a total of 6 cases of suicide in Kirinyaga and other parts of the country. This is alarming considering the fact that few cases make it to the media. The majority never do. But why is such on the rise? The following is an editors opinion and is no way based on any studies.
Financial constraints has forced people to the edge. People are no longer affording what they used to. With all the struggle and effort they put in, it’s not enough still. With the current economic times, it’s fair to note that financial hardships has forced people to depression.
Depression comes in too. People are being consumed by their thoughts. Depression can be caused by a lot of things. It can be stress, family, life hardships and many other things. When someone can’t find a solution to his problems, he falls into depression and this can be a critical stage that can to the person self harming themselves.
Pressure from all angles. In life, pressure is inevitable. How someone handles the pressure is what counts. When a person feels pressure that he/she thinks is not going away anytime soon, depression might kick in with suicidal tendencies. It can be financial pressure, family pressure, bills, social pressure or even career pressure.
Alcohol and substance abuse can be a cause of suicides. The Deputy president has been vocal on enacting tough rules in central to curb substance abuse. Kirinyaga recorded highest number of cases that made it to the media. This shows how substance abuse can be a factor. When someone is under heavy influence with problems at the back of his/her mind, he/she can make irrational decisions.
Intimate relationships can also be a factor in the rising suicidal cases. People should embrace relationship and marriage counselling to avoid self harm or violence against their spouses. Mistakes like cheating and disagreements can play a factor in suicidal instances.
Trauma and loneliness can be a factor too. When someone is dealing with a past trauma that keeps disturbing them, they might resolve to the “easy way out”. This is contributed by the person not ready to share their trauma and embraces loneliness. This can be a dangerous phase because suicidal thoughts can kick in easily when you are alone most of the time. Talk to professionals and get help.
Suicide has never and will never be the solution. Life will always throw dirt at you. And it’s okay not to be okay. You are not alone. Always share your problems with someoneyou trust. A problem shared is half solved. If you can’t trust anyone, trust a professional and get help. It’s never too late to seek help.
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