SUICIDE AS A CONSEQUENCE OF COVID-19

COVID-19 continues to ravage the world with the numbers of those succumbing to the disease rising every day. The advent of COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the risk for profound mental health challenges including suicide. On the 10th September, the world commemorated the World Suicide Prevention Day and we will reflect on suicide linkage to COVID-19.

There are many risks to suicide which include poor socio-economic conditions, unemployment, chronic conditions and natural disasters. COVID-19 has resulted in escalating cases of unemployment and economic disasters which clearly potentiates the risk for suicide on those affected. As McKibbin and Fernando anticipated, there is a significant impact on the global economy as a result of the pandemic. Many countries has so far reported GDP losses which does not augur well for overall mental health of the entire population.

The uncertainty over the course of the pandemic spirals the suicide threshold for those who are vulnerable. There are those who have intense fear which can predispose them to the brink of contemplating to commit suicide. Making reference to a similar SARS outbreak, there were documented cases of suicide attributed to fears of contracting the disease, general anxiety and social isolation.

Social support is a critical protective factor towards those having suicidal thoughts and ideations. The lockdowns and social isolation geared towards halting the spread of the virus has compromised such support which may be detrimental in the long run. It is worthwhile for each one of us to constantly check on those close to us more than before in order to minimise the risk.

As asserted in a 2020 paper by Gunnel and others, “suicide is likely to become a more pressing concern as the pandemic spreads and has long term effects on the general population” thus the need to act. Whilst we are all playing a meaningful role towards curbing the spread of COVID-19, we should in the same breadth try by all means to play an active role in recognising, finding help for and supporting people with high risk for suicide. As goes this year’s theme, let’s work together to prevent suicide!