Suicidal Ideations in the Shadow of Global Unrest

The world today feels heavier than ever. Between the lingering effects of a pandemic that refuses to fully release its grip and the unrelenting tide of global atrocities—wars, human rights violations, and systemic injustice—many of us are left struggling to cope. These overlapping crises are driving an alarming rise in suicidal ideation, as both personal and collective traumas become increasingly difficult to bear.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which we once hoped would be temporary, has become a constant presence. Though we are no longer in full lockdown, the psychological impact persists. What started as a global health crisis has now evolved into a prolonged collective trauma, leaving many struggling to regain their sense of stability and purpose. For some, the isolation, grief, and uncertainty created by the pandemic have turned into a persistent despair, driving thoughts of suicide.

The pandemic didn’t just take lives; it left emotional scars that many are still grappling with. The sense of disconnection from community, the loss of loved ones, and the economic instability created a deep mental health crisis. And even though we may no longer be facing the most intense phases of the pandemic, the psychological toll remains—evident in the rising rates of suicidal ideation across diverse populations.

As the world grapples with multiple crises—from wars to climate disasters to human rights abuses—the constant barrage of bad news feels overwhelming. For those already experiencing personal trauma, witnessing global suffering can be retraumatizing. Even for those who have not experienced such events firsthand, there is a growing sense of helplessness, a recognition of how little control we have over the world's larger systems of harm.

The weight of witnessing can be unbearable, especially for those who feel powerless to make meaningful change. Compassion fatigue, which arises from prolonged exposure to others' suffering, can leave individuals feeling desensitized but overwhelmed. This pervasive sense of despair can lead to increased thoughts of suicide, as the enormity of the world's problems seems insurmountable.

While suicidal ideation is deeply personal, it is also shaped by larger societal forces. The convergence of personal challenges—such as isolation, financial strain, or health issues—with global crises creates a sense of hopelessness that is difficult to escape. For marginalized communities—BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and first-generation individuals—these struggles are compounded by systemic oppression and a lack of access to mental health resources.

Many individuals from marginalized backgrounds are not only navigating personal and familial trauma, but are also forced to contend with societal structures that make it difficult to seek help or to find culturally competent care. The intersection of systemic oppression and personal despair heightens the risk of suicidal ideation.

While there are many well-meaning attempts to combat suicidal ideation, there is also a need to simply hold space for the pain that individuals are experiencing. In a world that demands constant productivity and resilience, acknowledging the heaviness of our collective and individual pain can be a first step toward healing. This means recognizing that sometimes, survival feels like the most we can hope for.

We must create spaces where people can express their despair without feeling pressured to immediately "get better" or "move on." Healing is not linear, and for many, the first step is being seen and heard in their pain, without judgment or expectation.

Addressing the rising rates of suicidal ideation requires both individual and collective action. For some, the path forward involves seeking therapy or connecting with a supportive community. For others, it may mean finding small acts of agency in a world that often feels out of control. Regardless of the path, it’s important to remember that healing doesn’t have to happen in isolation.

We understand the complex and interconnected nature of personal and collective trauma. Our team of clinicians is dedicated to providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and gender-affirming care. We specialize in working with BIPOC, QTPOC, and first-generation individuals who are navigating not only personal mental health struggles but also the broader impact of systemic oppression and global crises.

Our therapists recognize that suicidal ideation is often the result of deep-rooted, multifaceted pain, and we are here to walk alongside you as you navigate those difficult emotions. We offer telehealth services, making it easier for you to access care regardless of your location. Whether you're dealing with the long-term effects of the pandemic, global unrest, or personal trauma, Diaspora Therapy Group is committed to providing a safe and compassionate space for healing.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please don't hesitate to reach out. You don’t have to navigate this alone. We are here to support you through your journey toward healing. Reach out to learn more about how we can help.