Breaking the Silence on the Complexities of Mental Health and Suicide

Imagine waking up each day with a heavy heart, a mind clouded with despair, and the crushing weight of feeling like the world would be better off without you.

For many, this is a harsh reality—a daily battle against the darkness of suicidal thoughts. Silvester Thindiu, a psychologist who has walked this difficult path, opens up about his personal struggles and how it shaped his understanding of mental health and the battle against suicide.

Reflecting on a particularly trying period in his life, Silvester reveals, “A few years back, I was going through a rough time. It weighed me down to the point of suicidal ideation and intent. I was still pursuing my undergraduate degree in Psychology at the time. People often assume therapists have everything sorted out, but we forget we are human beings first.”

Silvester’s experience speaks to a broader misconception—that those trained in mental health are immune to the struggles they help others navigate.

Like many, he found it difficult to confront his own feelings, as the stigma surrounding mental health often led him to question how others would perceive him. “Before I could talk about my battle with suicide, I often felt shame,” he admits. “I wondered how people would think of me. Eventually, I realised I was stigmatising myself.”

This self-stigma, Silvester explains, is not unique to him. Mental health struggles, particularly suicidal thoughts, are often cloaked in silence because of the stigma society attaches to them.

He stresses that breaking this silence is essential, especially for those within the mental health profession. “It’s unfortunate because I am in a profession that champions mental health. If I can’t speak about my struggles, how can I expect others to do so?” he reflects.

The misconceptions surrounding suicide

While society often links suicide with other mental health conditions, Silvester points out that these are not the only causes. “Yes, mental health conditions play a role, but there are other factors too—substance use, major life events like the death of a loved one, and other traumatic experiences can all lead someone to contemplate suicide.”

This broadening of understanding is crucial, Silvester argues, because the misconceptions surrounding mental health often prevent people from seeking help early.

“Many people believe that therapy is only for those on the verge of losing their sanity or when nothing is going right in their life. But the truth is, therapy equips individuals with tools, information, and awareness that promote healthy habits and a positive life,” he explains.

In fact, Silvester believes that we need to normalise therapy as a proactive tool rather than a last resort. By shifting this narrative, more individuals can seek help early, preventing crises from escalating into life-threatening situations.

Recognising the signs of suicidal ideation

For families and friends, recognising the warning signs of suicidal thoughts is critical. Silvester outlines some common indicators: feelings of hopelessness, statements such as “I wish I could sleep and never wake up,” or “Everyone would be better off without me,” unexpected goodbyes, giving away belongings, and social withdrawal. “Typically, these signs overlap, and it’s best that people seek professional help if they experience them for a few days,” he advises.

The role of families and friends

Support from loved ones can make all the difference in preventing suicide. Silvester urges families and friends to take an active role in offering support, stating, “Creating a safe, judgement-free space where one feels listened to and valued is crucial. It’s also important to check in regularly with those who are struggling—it helps them feel cared for and less isolated.”

He further stresses the importance of seeking professional help when the risk of suicide becomes imminent.

In some cases, confidentiality may have to be breached to save a life. “Mental health practitioners are obligated to breach confidentiality if there’s a clear danger to someone’s life or property,” he explains.

Additionally, Silvester also warns against neglecting individuals who display signs of suicidal ideation. Failing to offer support can worsen feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, further increasing the risk of suicide.

Reducing the stigma

Silvester is passionate about combating the stigma surrounding mental health. He encourages people to educate themselves by researching and listening to authentic stories from those who have battled suicide and other mental health issues. “The more informed we are, the better our understanding, and the more likely we are to challenge the myths and misconceptions about mental health,” he says.

In this age of information, Silvester believes survivors, mental health professionals, and advocates have a responsibility to create and share educational content on mental health issues. By doing so, they can foster greater understanding and empathy within society.

Making a difference

Silvester’s involvement in mental health advocacy began during his university years. Since then, he has led numerous campaigns aimed at raising awareness about mental health, particularly suicide.

He has been active in mental health CSR initiatives, organises webinars, and leads mental health departments in various Nairobi-based organisations. His focus has always been on leveraging technology to reach a broader audience.

Notable progress has been made in the mental health sector, with increased government involvement and more entities forming to address mental health needs.

“There’s been a positive shift,” Silvester notes. “Mental health care is now being integrated into primary health care systems, and we’ve seen more media personalities and companies championing mental wellness.”

However, challenges remain, particularly in terms of accessibility and affordability of mental health services in Kenya. Misconceptions continue to perpetuate stigma, making it difficult for people to seek the help they need.

“We still have a long way to go,” Silvester says, “but with continuous efforts, we can create a society where mental health is understood, accepted, and treated with the urgency it deserves.”

Through Silvester’s story, it becomes clear that mental health is a matter that demands our immediate attention and action.

The stigma surrounding mental health and suicide continues to claim lives, but it doesn’t have to. We all have a role to play, whether it’s offering a listening ear, challenging misconceptions, or seeking help for ourselves or others.