Suicide is not just a global issue; it has been a major challenge for human civilization for centuries. Most approaches to addressing suicide focus on preventing and managing its causes, with a strong emphasis on mental health. Yet, despite these efforts, suicide remains difficult to prevent.

When examining the factors influencing suicide, we can broadly categorize them into two groups:

1. Personal Factors – These include mental health, personal beliefs, and individual circumstances.
2. Social Factors – These include cultural norms, societal beliefs, and philosophical influences that shape collective thinking.

While personal factors develop within an individual’s lifetime, social influences often emerge long before a person is even born—sometimes centuries earlier. Unfortunately, most suicide prevention efforts focus heavily on personal factors while largely overlooking the deeper social influences that may unknowingly encourage suicidal tendencies.

The Role of Collective Thinking

One widely accepted belief is that every individual has the right to decide their own fate. While personal freedom is crucial, it can take a darker turn when it comes to suicide. If life is seen as strictly personal, its meaning can fade when individual struggles become overwhelming. However, when life is connected to a deeper, shared purpose, it is often more resilient against despair.

Perhaps a balanced perspective—where individual autonomy and collective responsibility coexist—could help. Instead of viewing life as an isolated journey, we should recognize that we are inherently connected to our communities. In this light, decisions about life and death should not be based solely on individual suffering but also on a broader understanding of existence.

The Power of Meaning in Life

Life feels fulfilling when it holds meaning. No amount of wealth or knowledge can sustain a person if their life lacks purpose. Throughout history, philosophers have debated that suicide can seem logical in the absence of meaning. However, long-term meaning can serve as a moral anchor, providing resilience against temporary hardships.

Spiritual or philosophical perspectives can offer individuals a broader understanding of life, helping them endure intense but temporary struggles. For instance, a person who believes death is the ultimate end may feel hopeless after a tragic event, such as losing their ability to walk. However, someone who sees life as part of a greater journey—beyond physical existence—may be less likely to succumb to suicidal thoughts.

Rethinking Death and Its Influence on Suicide

Some ancient schools of thought suggest that suicide is rational when life becomes worse than death. Others view death as a desirable escape, free from accountability for life’s struggles. Both perspectives can contribute to suicidal tendencies.

To reduce suicide, we need a balanced societal outlook on death—neither as the absolute end nor as a mere transition without responsibility. In societies where life is valued beyond personal suffering and accountability for one’s existence is emphasized, suicide rates may naturally decline over time.

Challenging Oversimplified Views of Death

Many people assume that death is simply the cessation of existence. However, scientifically, we know little about what happens beyond physical death. When a society lacks alternative perspectives on existence, this assumption can reinforce suicidal thoughts.

If people are taught that death is an unknown rather than a definitive escape, it may discourage suicidal tendencies. There is no scientific proof that existence ceases with death—this idea is purely an assumption. Recognizing this could help shift perspectives and reduce suicide in the long run.

Hope for the Future

A common factor behind suicide is the absence of hope. If death is seen as the final endpoint, then the future appears bleak. Those who believe life is confined to this physical existence may find no reason to endure suffering. However, when society fosters pessimistic views of life and death, individuals—especially vulnerable ones—struggle to find optimism.

For a sustainable reduction in suicide rates, we must challenge these pessimistic assumptions and promote a more hopeful outlook on life and existence.

A Long-Term Approach to Suicide Prevention

Changing individual suicidal behavior takes months, sometimes years. Transforming societal attitudes, however, can take generations. But no matter how long it takes, if we fail to address the broader social and philosophical influences on suicide, we may never achieve a meaningful and lasting reduction in suicide rates.

By rethinking our approach—considering both personal struggles and collective philosophies—we can work towards a future where life is not only preserved but also deeply valued.