By Clifford Okyere
On Monday of this week, anyone who had attempted to commit suicide and failed might have been fast-tracked for a jail term just because their escape mechanism to have peace of mind from a world full of agony and frustration, had failed. How reasonable that was!
But Tuesday, March 28th, 2023 brought praises to the parliament of the Republic of Ghana from major stakeholders such as health officials and ordinary Ghanaians on hearing that the house had decriminalized attempted suicide, following the amendment of sections of the Criminal Offenses Acts of 1960. This has come after some respected legislators had kicked against this move including Haruna Iddrisu, former Minority leader in 2019 stating that the act was unacceptable behaviour and hence needed to be punished and deterred rather than being provided with the necessary health assistance.
This is indeed good news for mental health practitioners and advocates including Dr. Pinamang Appau, who had pushed strongly for the law to be revised. But the work does not end there, it is nowhere close to reducing the about 1.14% of lives that is lost every year to suicide. Reducing suicide and its attempts will require a multifaceted approach involving the government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals in general to achieve the aim.
WHAT IS THE WAY FORWARD?
As Parliament has agreed that the best way for attempted suicide persons is provision, there should also be an attempt to increase access to mental health services. As detrimental as it is to one’s well-being, mental health services can be made attractive as possible to aid in the quest to reduce suicide and its attempts. The mental health facilities meant to provide these needed health care needs to be funded to the brim. Pantang and many other traditional mental health centers should not stand aloof to renovations and attention to able to provide affordable and quality mental health services to people. It goes both ways. The over-zealous philanthropists can also support mental health advocacy organizations as government cannot only survive on its coffers.
As we strive for better funding for our facilities to provide better mental health services, we should also not loose guard on the advocacy work of educating the public about suicide prevention in any small way. The government can certainly launch public awareness campaigns about suicide prevention, emphasizing on the warning signs of suicide and encouraging people to seek help. But the onus lies on we the citizens ourselves on ways we can prevent shifting people into tight corners where their only option will be to end their lives. We must foster a culture of mental health awareness and support in our personal and professional lives, where there is education about mental health in our schools, churches, mosques, and workplaces, ways to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and suicide prevention.
Also, as the fourth estate of the realm, we have a role to play in suicide prevention. Illicit media coverage on incident of suicide and attempted suicide, and sensationalism on the part of the media, play a contributing factor to copycat suicides. Rather than playing the devil’s advocate, the media can provide information about resources for help. And also commemorate mental health days on shows to educate the people more on new innovative ways they can seek help.
SIDE PIECE.
If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, know that you are not alone. It is essential to remember that these thoughts are not a sign of weakness or defeat, and there is certainly no shame in seeking help. It takes courage to seek out for support, and there are resources available to help you through such process.
Remember that there is hope, and with the right support and resources, you can overcome these thoughts and feelings. In times of crisis, it is important to reach out to a trusted friend or family member, professional help from a mental health provider, or contact a toll-free suicide prevention and mental health number on 08006787678.
It is essential to know that suicide is preventable, and with collective efforts, we can reduce the number of suicide attempts and deaths. Let us all work together to promote a culture of mental health awareness and support, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and provide resources and support to those in need. Together, we can make a positive impact and save lives.