Assalamu alaikum
.I have decided that on a weekly basis I am going to write about an issue that is
impacting on our communities.The aim is not to chastise or pontificate but to create
awareness and proffer solutions.
This week I want to focus on suicides which is becoming a growing phenomenon
amongst our youth.
Research suggests ten causes of suicides.

1. Mental health conditions – Particularly depression, anxiety disorders, and other
   conditions that can create overwhelming emotional pain.
2. Trauma and adverse experiences – Including abuse, neglect, bullying, or significant
   loss.
3. Social isolation and loneliness – Feeling disconnected from family, peers, or
   community.
4. Substance use – Which can impair judgment and increase impulsivity during crisis
   moments.
5. Access to lethal means – When highly lethal methods are readily available during
   moments of crisis.
6. Significant life stressors – Academic pressure, relationship breakdowns, family
   conflict, or identity struggles.
7. Chronic illness or pain – That can feel unbearable or hopeless.
8. Discrimination and minority stress –
9. Exposure to suicide – Through media, peers, or family, which can influence vulnerable
   individuals.
10. Hopelessness about the future – A cognitive state where improvement seems
    impossible.
    Protective factors like strong connections, access to care, and coping skills can impact
    positively.
    So what can the home do to mitigate risks?
11. Introduce our children to Allah ( SWT) in a meaningful way.
12. Create in our children a deep and profound love for our beloved Prophet Mohamed (
    SAW).
13. Open communication. Create a safe space where kids feel heard and validated.
    Encourage them to express emotions .
    4 Acknowledge their feelings, and show empathy. Let them know about the
    vicissitudes of life.
14. Quality time. Spend meaningful time together as a family, doing activities they enjoy.
    6 Model healthy coping mechanisms: Show kids how to manage stress and emotions
    in a positive way.
15. Monitor mental health: Be aware of changes in behaviour, mood, or academic
    performance.
16. Foster resilience. Teach kids problem-solving skills, self-care, and coping strategies.
17. Build strong relationships. Encourage connections with family, friends, and
    community.
18. Express and demonstrate your love for your children.
19. Know your children’s friends.
20. Ensure they fulfill their Islamic obligations.
21. Whilst they are young and placidly malleable, impact on them.
22. Delay their gratification.
23. Monitor what they are exposed to in social media.16. Do welfare work with your
    children.
24. Make your home a sanctuary.
25. Have a family routine.
26. Have family values and goals.
27. The family that eats together,plays together and prays together stays together.
    21 All children need 1 Acceptance 2 Affirmation 3 Appreciation 4 Acknowledgement 5
    Affection and 6 Attention.
28. As a family read the Quran with understanding.
29. Last but not least pray for them.