World Suicide Prevention Day: My Suicide Story (Breaking the Silence)

I had been unemployed for over 2years, the news of my new job made everyone happy, months into learning Web Design and Graphics I got an opportunity at an upcoming coding company

Everyone from the Church, my friends and family was happy for me, I didn’t realize it was a 2 weeks boot camp after which unqualified persons are sent home

The shock I felt seeing the termination mail on the second Monday of my resumption was startling, honestly I was not cut out for that job, my laptop barely worked, I didn’t complete assignments, I didn’t even do any work or look at my mail all through the weekend; not so Techie right, well that was me before everything changed

Knowing I was on borrowed time that week broke my heart, words of encouragement and congratulations from people around me felt like boiling water running down my throat, i lived that way till Friday end of the week, the day after which I had to come up with a story for everyone who had wished me well after I got the job

I stood on top of Oshodi bridge on my way home, lost in thought, I didn’t have a job anymore, my Mum had changed my wardrobe before I resumed the job, what was I going to tell her
The thought of ending it all and jumping off the bridge filled my mind, I imagined how my story would fill up the popular blogs, then I thought of my mother, the one person who has seen me through all my triumphs and failures, the only one who would live to bear the shame of my actions
I remembered her words, “Ulo nna gi anaghi achu g’oso”, so I cooked up a lie for her and everyone and went home

Over a decade later and I’m a totally different different person from that boy on Oshodi Bridge, I still walk on that bridge, see myself sprawling on the ground, run over by cars and I laugh, that would have been the most stupid decision I ever made, because my life definitely got better, I have gone on to work for 2 Banks, 3 Radio Stations, acquired a Masters in Business Administration, whoever is reading this and feeling suicidal don’t do it, “maka na Nkiruka”, the future always gets better

Every year on September 10, the world observes World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), a day dedicated to raising awareness about suicide, reducing stigma, and promoting actions that can save lives. Organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), this day serves as a reminder that suicide is not just a personal tragedy but a global public health issue that affects individuals, families, and entire communities.

The Global Challenge

Suicide claims the lives of over 700,000 people each year—that’s one person every 40 seconds. It is one of the leading causes of death among young people aged 15–29, yet it is preventable. Factors such as mental health disorders, trauma, financial difficulties, social isolation, and stigma surrounding help-seeking often contribute to this crisis.

Why Awareness Matters

Stigma and silence remain some of the biggest barriers to suicide prevention. Many people struggling with suicidal thoughts feel ashamed to speak out or believe they are a burden. World Suicide Prevention Day challenges these harmful beliefs, encouraging societies to normalize conversations about mental health, offer support systems, and provide accessible crisis services

Ways to Support the Cause

1. Reach Out – A simple message or call can show someone they’re not alone.
2. Educate Yourself – Learn about warning signs like withdrawal, hopelessness, or drastic mood changes.
3. Promote Resources – Share helpline numbers and mental health services in your community.
4. Advocate – Support policies and programs that strengthen mental health care and suicide prevention efforts.
5. Participate in Awareness Events – Candlelight walks, community talks, and social media campaigns spread hope and visibility.