Psychiatry Specialist Dr. Çevik: “Suicides affect 108 million people every year”

Psychiatry Specialist Dr. Mehmet Çevik stated that 1 million people in the world lose their lives every year due to suicide and said, “Each suicide causes approximately 135 people to be intensely affected by this situation. This corresponds to 108 million people worldwide who are deeply affected by suicidal behavior every year. However, saying a kind word and listening without judgment can make a difference and save that person's life.”

Specialist from Liv Hospital Samsun Psychiatry Clinic. Dr. Mehmet Çevik gave information on September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day. Psychiatry Specialist Dr. Mehmet Çevik emphasized that the World Health Organization (WHO), as an initiative of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, declared September 10 as World Suicide Prevention Day in 2003 in order to raise awareness about the phenomenon of suicide in the world and said, “According to WHO data, approximately one million people die every year in the world due to suicide. This value roughly means 1 death every 40 seconds.”

“Suicide prevention is largely possible”

Pointing out that 1 out of every 25 suicide attempts results in death, and that many more people may have serious thoughts about suicide, Uzm. Dr. Çevik said, “Each life lost represents someone's spouse, child, parent, friend or colleague. Each suicide causes approximately 135 people to be intensely affected by this situation. This equates to 108 million people worldwide who are deeply affected by suicidal behavior every year. There are many things you can do every day to prevent suicidal behavior. For example, you can raise awareness of the issue at every opportunity, educate yourself and others about the causes of suicide and suicidal warning signs, show compassion to those around you who are in distress, and make them aware of the prejudices of those around you about suicide, suicidal behavior and mental health problems.”

“You can be a key player in suicide prevention”

“If you believe that a person is having suicidal thoughts, do not be afraid to talk to the person,” said Specialist Dr. Çevik. Dr. Çevik said the following:

“Without judging the person, ask them in a compassionate and simple way if they have thoughts of self-harm. People who have attempted suicide usually state that they do not want to die, instead they want someone to intervene and stop them. Most say they are looking for someone who can sense their despair and ask them if they are OK. A kind word and a non-judgmental listening ear can make a difference and help you save that person's life.”