The journey of accepting being Deaf is often long and difficult, and suicide can be one of the major challenges that Deaf people face along the way.
As we observe Deaf Awareness Month, World Suicide Prevention Day is a reminder that we need to be there for Deaf persons and offer them support so that they don’t feel like they have to take their own lives.
The day is observed every year on September 10th, and it is an initiative organized by various mental health organizations and supported by the World Health Organization.
It aims to raise awareness about suicide, promote understanding, and provide support to individuals who might be struggling with suicidal thoughts.
According to sources, there are a number of reasons why Deaf people are at an increased risk of suicide, one being the communication barrier – Deaf people face difficulty communicating with hearing people and, hence unable to get help.
They may also feel isolated and alone, which can contribute to feelings of depression and hopelessness. Additionally, Deaf people may face discrimination, which can further contribute to feelings of worthlessness and despair.
The most reassuring thing is that there are interventions that can be done to prevent suicide among Deaf people. One important step is to raise awareness of the issue.
This can be done by talking about suicide openly and honestly, and by making sure that Deaf people are included in all aspects of suicide prevention efforts.