A Month of Suicide Awareness and Prevention
September is the month marked by the worldwide Yellow September campaign, an important initiative aimed at raising awareness in society about suicide prevention. This is a delicate and extremely relevant issue, as suicide is a global public health problem that affects millions of people every year.
In this blog, we will address the importance of Yellow September, its origins, worrying statistics, warning signs, ways to help and how we can all, together, contribute to breaking the stigma and supporting those who need it most.
- The Origin of Yellow September
The Yellow September movement began in Brazil in 2015, inspired by the “Yellow Ribbon” campaign in the United States. The color yellow symbolizes the appreciation of life and hope, seeking to stimulate dialogue and awareness about suicide prevention around the world.
- Suicide: A Global Problem
Sadly, suicide is a problem that transcends borders, affecting people of all ages, genders and cultures. Alarming data from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that approximately 800,000 people die by suicide each year, being the second leading cause of death among young people aged 15 to 29 years.
- Identifying Warning Signs
Being aware of the warning signs can be crucial in preventing suicide. Some behaviors that may indicate that someone is in distress include extreme mood swings, social isolation, disinterest in previously pleasurable activities, expressions of hopelessness and helplessness, among others.
- The Importance of Conversation
Breaking the silence is one of the main objectives of Yellow September. Starting an empathetic and welcoming conversation with someone who is going through difficult times can make all the difference. Active listening and offering support are essential for the person to feel understood and supported.
- How to Help
If you identify someone who is experiencing emotional difficulties, it is essential to act with care and compassion. Offer emotional support, encourage the search for professional help, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, and do not hesitate to get in touch with available support services, such as the Centro de Valorização da Vida (CVV).
- Social Media and Prevention
Social networks play an important role in disseminating information about suicide prevention. During Yellow September, it is common to see hashtags and awareness campaigns circulating in digital media. It is essential to use this influence in a responsible and empathetic way, avoiding sensationalist content and offering useful and welcoming information.
Yellow September is a month of reflection and action for suicide prevention. Raising awareness of this delicate issue is the first step towards building a more empathetic and welcoming society.
Let us be agents of change, disseminating information, offering emotional support and helping each individual to feel supported in their journey.
Together, we can make a difference and save lives. After all, talking is the best solution!