Many people from various cultural groups do not talk about suicide. It is commonly believed that if we mention the word suicide we will give ideas to people who may be vulnerable and they may start considering taking their own lives. Many religious families and groups won't disclose when a member commits suicide out of shame, guilt, fear and embarrassment as many religions claims that taking one's life is sinful and the person who commits suicide will go to eternal damnation. In many cultures, priests and religious leaders refuse to bury people inside the cemetery walls if the deceased had taken their own life. Many grow up in a culture of stigma perpetuated by religious dogma. So how do we start this difficult conversation with people to help them with managing negative feelings, and initiate steps to making positive changes? Especially when no one community is the same and there is great diversity within each culture and their subcultures and groups within them.Before starting the conversation we would need to understand the risks factors and vulnerabilities to suicide, fear and stigma associated with mental health problems, varying traditions when discussing sensitive subjects and concerns around confidentiality.The migration process can be challenging for many as it involves considerable changes to physical, social, cultural and economic environments. If someone has escaped war, or being a victim of trauma or torture, their levels of stress may be higher and may greatly impact on the development of suicidal behavior. The process of change experienced when living in a new country has been linked to stress and emotional problems including anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation, alienation and low self-esteem. Additionally, experiencing racism and discrimination upon arrival to a new country may lead to further isolation and withdrawal which could exacerbate mental health issues. Many things can stop people from seeking help including language barriers, limited knowledge about available services and resources and how to navigate these, stigma, religious beliefs and concerns about confidentiality, especially in certain communities when everyone knows everybody. So what's suicide in your language? How do you start this difficult chat with someone? And where do you go for help? Would the same things that applied back in your country at the time of your migration be relevant here? Let's talk suicide, shall we?
