Your life matters – Do not suffer in silence
By: Christine Hayek Abi Assaad
Stress Management and CBT therapist UK accredited.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed or hopeless lately? Do you ever feel like life isn't worth living? Have
you ever had thoughts of hurting yourself?
How many people around the world end their lives everyday? People who are drowning in hopelessness,
overwhelmed by sadness, lost in darkness and crushed by sorrow. How many people die in 1 second of
despair, longing for a ray of hope to lift them, but finding none, they give in to the silence of death.
Yes. We are talking about suicide. It is the silent cry of a soul that couldn't carry the weight of its storms
any longer. Suicide is a silent crisis affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. It is not a decision
made lightly-it is often the result of deep, unrelenting emotional pain and a sense of hopelessness. Many
who take this path, are not seeking death, but an escape from suffering they feel they can no longer bear.
This can be due to mental health issues like depression, schizophrenia, trauma & severe anxiety. To
addiction & substance abuse, isolation, chronic illness pain & major life crisis.
What are the warning signs of suicide we shall all be aware of?
It often include noticeable changes in behaviour such as withdrawing from loved ones, talking about
feeling hopeless or being a burden, having sudden mood swings, and giving away personal belongings. A
person may also increase the use of alcohol and drugs and show signs of severe anxiety.
Everyone deserves to live. What can we do to prevent suicide?
Mental health support plays a vital role in suicide prevention.
Therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Stress management techniques
help individuals reframe negative thoughts, build emotional resilience and develop healthier coping
strategies.
But suicide prevention is not just a task for therapists, it’s a community responsibility. We all have a role
to play. Listening without judgment, showing empathy and encouraging professional help. Sharing mental
health resources, promoting helplines and speaking openly about mental wellness helps others feel less
alone in their struggles. A kind word, a listening ear, or simply checking in can make a life saving
difference.
Let's keep spreading hope and reminding each other: Help is always available and No one has to struggle
alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don't stay silent. Reach out for support. You are not
alone.
