BOGOR - National Center for Mental Health (PKJN) of Marzoeki Mahdi Hospital held a webinar to commemorate World Suicide Prevention Day, Tuesday (10/09/2024). The global theme of World Suicide Prevention Day in 2024-2026 is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" with the slogan "Start the Conversation". Changing the narrative about suicide means changing the way we view this complex problem and shifting from a tradition of silence and stigma to being more open, understanding, and supportive.
In line with this theme, when giving a keynote speech, Minister of Health Budi G. Sadikin emphasized the importance of opening discussions and conversations about mental health conditions rather than hiding them. Mental health should be a common topic of conversation in families and communities, so that someone can talk about their problems and ask for help without fear of being judged.
"Stories about suicide are often wrapped in silence, shame, and fear. This narrative has trapped so many people, preventing them from seeking the help they so desperately need. Rather than seeing suicide as something taboo, let's use social media to talk about it openly and with empathy," he said.
Responding to the increasingly rapid development of technology, Budi also added that social media can be a space for people to share their problems and find support.
"It's time for us to use this platform not only to connect, but also so that we care for each other. We live in an era where stories are shared every second, whether through videos, tweets, photos, or other messages," he added.
The narrative that must be spread now is: it's okay if someone is not doing well, and it's okay if someone seeks help from others.
"It's OK not to be OK, and it's OK to ask for help. Let's change the narrative of suicide today. I ask you to share it on social media and send this message to the world that we must continue to live this life," he concluded.
This webinar was attended by more than 180 participants consisting of academics and health workers in the field of mental health throughout Indonesia. (Public Relations/R)