Editorial
Let’s do our part to stop suicide attempts
Urgent action is needed to stop suicide attempts because suicide poses major public health risks and have long-lasting social, emotional, mental, physical, and economic effects.
Suicide refers to taking one’s own life. People may use it as a means of escaping pain or misery.
Research indicates that for those aged 10 to 34, suicide is the second most common cause of death, and for those aged 35 to 54, it is the fourth most common.
In light of this, immediate action is needed to guarantee that suicide mortality rates are lowered.
This September, as the world observes National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, The Spectator wishes to appeal to all individuals and organisations across the nation to raise awareness of the issue of suicide and promote its prevention.
Last Sunday, was World Suicide Prevention Day. The theme was “Creating Hope Through Action.”
The rate of suicide attempts is disturbing. Now children are included in addition to the teens. There is an urgent need to address suicide.
Suicide can be linked to a high unemployment rate that creates financial difficulties, poverty, neglect, and major health issues.
Due to the high divorce rate in society today, marital dissolution could possibly be linked to suicide.
A number of mental health issues, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and emotional stress, have been linked to a higher risk of suicide. According to research, 46 percent of suicide victims had a diagnosable mental health issue.
The Spectator urges all to come onboard to address this issue as suicidal thoughts can afflict everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
Governmental and non-governmental organisations must strengthen their support systems, particularly for people who have attempted suicide, in order to prevent future occurrence.
A woman who had tried suicide described how she had suicidal thoughts and believed that was her only option. She suggested that there should be separate rooms for doctors sharing consulting rooms as patients do not feel comfortable discussing problems while visiting the hospital.
To help families manage people who are at danger of suicidal behaviours, healthcare officials should educate the public on coping and problem-solving techniques.
Another crucial area that requires attention from policymakers is the improvement of access to and delivery of suicide care.
Individuals who display violent behaviour, mood swings, increased alcohol and drug use, and withdrawal from friends, family, and the community must be recognised and given support by their families and communities.
Some families have lost loved ones to suicide. No one is safe, that is why we need to raise awareness, advocate for alternatives to suicidal acts, and provide support for those who survived.
Dear Editor,
I WRITE to draw the attention of NADMO and other related agencies to the recent prediction by the Ghana Meteorological Agency to expect a lot of rains this year, especially in the Southern sector of the country.
GMet issued the forecast to provide an early warning to protect lives and property.
Interestingly, the Southern sector happens to be one of the many trouble spots in the country when the rains start.
It predicted the season to start in March and continue until July or August with above-normal rainfall along the eastern coast and nearby inland areas, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade.
Knowing the problems faced as a country, concerns have been raised in certain quarters about the aftermath flooding problems in low-lying areas.
These concerns are well placed because flooding has become an annual ritual associated with the season.
My appeal goes to NADMO as well as the district and metropolitan assemblies. They are responsible for activities before and after the season.
As we prepare, they must spearhead the campaign to desilt the drainages in order for water to flow freely.
The citizenry must also show some sense of responsibility by desisting from throwing rubbish into gutters to block the free flow of water.
Noah Musa,
Adabraka
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to express my views on why some people abuse leaders on social media platforms.
In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for communication and expression. Unfortunately, many people misuse this freedom by insulting and abusing leaders instead of engaging in constructive criticism.
One major reason for this behaviour is frustration. When citizens feel ignored, unemployed, or affected by poor policies, they sometimes turn their anger toward leaders online.
Another reason is anonymity. Social media allows users to hide behind fake names and profiles, which gives them the confidence to say things they would not dare say in public. This lack of accountability encourages abusive language and disrespectful comments.
Ignorance and misinformation also play a role. Some people abuse leaders based on false news or rumours without verifying facts. This leads to unnecessary attacks that can damage reputations and create tension in society.
While leaders should be held accountable, abuse and insults do not solve problems. Too many people are finding social media platforms as homes to hide and churn out untruths that goes a long way to damage the image and credibility of the victims.
Constructive criticism, dialogue, and lawful channels are better ways to express dissatisfaction. Citizens must remember that respect is essential for national unity and development.
I hope this letter will encourage people to use social media responsibly and promote respectful communication.
Eugene Ampiaw,
Takoradi
