A few days ago, a friend of my father's took his own life. He was considered friendly, funny, smart and outgoing; many loved him for his kind, lovable and humorous nature. Unfortunately, his depression and despair grew quietly and he felt compelled to commit suicide. He is not an anomaly; he is actually representative of many others in our society. No matter who we are, what our position in life, how happy we look or what we have accomplished, suicidal thoughts can come to anyone. No doubt, we all have had thoughts of ending our lives.

Rising incidence

The incidence of suicide is increasing at an alarming rate. Every year, almost one million people kill themselves across the world. One person attempts to take their life every three seconds and succeeds in doing so every 40 seconds, claims one report. It is predicted that by 2020, the rate of suicide will increase to one every 20 seconds. Developed countries have high incidences of suicide but those in developing countries like Nepal are more vulnerable. It is still a taboo in many developing countries to even discuss suicide. In Nepal, there is no comprehensive data on suicides as no study has been conducted at the national level on the prevalence and incidence of suicide.

It is still not clear why the number of suicides is increasing. However, depression is considered a major risk factor in suicides. Research shows that the vast majority of those who kill themselves-nearly 80 percent—were depressed at the time of their death.

In today's society, people, particularly the young, are confronted with unhealthy competition for grades and a pressure to succeed, which can lead to a sense of hopelessness and worthlessness in case of failure. Every year, a number of students who fail the School Leaving Certificate exams commit suicide. Similarly, age, unemployment, chronic illness, alcoholism, social isolation, personality disorders, physical or sexual abuse, violence, anxiety and an unstable environment are other risk factors for suicide.

However, the truth is that suicide does not solve any problems. In fact, it only creates many more problems, like intense sorrow, guilt, anger, confusion, depression and anxiety for those left behind. Suicide, therefore, passes the problem at hand onto family and friends, who already suffer from losing a loved one.

Recognising signs

But suicide is preventable. Most people who commit or attempt suicide often show signs of their intentions. And most people who think about killing themselves don't really want to die but are overcome with emotional pain and cannot see any other way to handle their current situation. So the best way to prevent suicide is to recognise these warning signs and help such people by pointing out realistic alternatives and by getting a doctor or psychologist involved.

Though preventing suicide is a crucial matter, only a few countries have included suicide prevention among their priorities. In country like Nepal, there is a basic lack of awareness of suicide as a major problem. This situation needs to be rectified if suicides are to be controlled. Depression is a treatable condition. Counselling with a mental health professional is available for depressed individuals. A person who appears suicidal should not be left alone. A previous suicide attempt is among the strongest predictors of subsequent suicide. Such individuals need immediate cognitive therapy so that they can find alternative solutions when thought of self-harm arise. Studies show that cognitive therapy can reduce the risk of suicide by 50 percent.

Permanent solution

The role of parents is also paramount. They should watch over their children and provide proper love, care, value and respect. More than 90 percent of teenagers who attempted suicide said they felt little to no parental care and understanding. Likewise, enhancing coping skill and building self-esteem and self-respect can help reduce the risk of suicide among the youth.

Lastly, we must all accept that everything in this world is temporary and that every problem has a solution. We must not forget that time heals all wounds. It is important to know that once we take the final step to commit suicide, we can't change our minds. As the cliché goes, 'suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem'.

Bhattarai is studying chartered accountancy