Every year, more than 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide, and for every death, many more attempt it. In Nigeria, stigma and silence around mental health mean many of these stories never get told, and many people never get the chance to reach out before it’s too late.

Suicide is rarely about wanting to die. It’s often about wanting the pain to stop, and not seeing another way through. That’s why the people around someone matter so much. A phone call, a visit, a simple “how are you, really?” can be the thing that keeps someone here another day.

Culturally, many of us are taught to keep struggles within the family, or to see mental health struggles as a spiritual or moral failing. That silence costs lives. Normalizing these conversations, at home, in church, in school, at work, is part of the work of prevention.

Today, take a moment to check in on someone you haven’t heard from in a while. You may not know what they’re carrying.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out now:

SURPIN 24-Hour Helpline (Toll-Free): 0800 078 7746

National Emergency: 112