Dear Friend, There Is Hope Beyond Suicidal Thoughts

By: Marvellous Olajide

University life is often painted as the “best years” of a young person’s life. But beneath the laughter, parties, and endless selfies, many students are quietly battling emotional storms. For some, the pain grows so heavy that they begin to think the only escape is to end their own life.

Suicide among students is a heartbreaking reality. It’s whispered about in hostels after a tragic incident, discussed briefly in class when a student doesn’t return, and often brushed under the carpet because of stigma. Yet it’s happening—right here, on our campuses. And it deserves to be spoken about openly, with compassion and honesty.

Why Do Students Think About Suicide?Suicide is not caused by a single event. It’s usually the result of many pressures piling up until a person feels overwhelmed. It’s like a ticking time bomb that looks like it’s taking forever to explode, but then suddenly, when no one is looking, it goes boom. For students, some common causes include:

Academic Pressure

Carryovers, low GPAs, difficult lecturers, and the fear of disappointing parents can feel unbearable. Many students quietly equate their self-worth with grades.

Financial Struggles

Life in school is expensive: feeding, purchasing handouts, securing accommodation, daily fare, among others. Students who lack financial support may feel hopeless and ashamed.

Loneliness and Isolation

Even in a crowded hostel, a student can feel invisible. Many struggle to make genuine connections, especially if they’re far from home.

Relationship Issues

Heartbreak, betrayal, or toxic friendships can leave students feeling unwanted or unloved.

Mental Health Conditions

Depression, anxiety, trauma, or untreated emotional wounds can push students toward suicidal thoughts. Sadly, in Nigeria, many are told to “pray it away” instead of being encouraged to seek professional help.

Family Pressure and Expectations

Some students are the “hope of the family.” The fear of failing that responsibility can become a crushing weight.

Signs That Someone You Know Might Be Struggling

Sometimes, those thinking about suicide don’t say it directly. But they may show signs like:

• Withdrawing from friends and activities.

• Talking about being tired of life or feeling like a burden.

• Sudden changes in eating or sleeping patterns.

• Giving away personal belongings or writing goodbye messages.

• Engaging in risky or self-destructive behavior.

If you notice these signs in someone close, take them seriously.

Ways to Reduce Suicidal Thoughts

If you’re battling suicidal thoughts, please know you are not alone. Here are steps that can help lighten the burden:

Talk to Someone You Trust

It could be a close friend, a fellowship leader, a roommate, or a family member. Speaking up breaks the silence that suicidal thoughts thrive in.

Seek Professional Help

Universities often have counseling units, though underused, it would greatly help. Talking to a psychologist, counselor, or doctor can give you tools to cope with the storm in your mind.

Avoid Isolation

Even when you feel like withdrawing, try to stay around supportive people. Being alone often makes dark thoughts louder.

Limit Stressors

Break down tasks into smaller steps instead of trying to solve everything at once. Give yourself permission to rest without guilt.

Engage in Life-Giving Activities

Exercise, prayer, music, journaling, or volunteering can shift your focus and release positive energy.

Challenge Negative Thoughts

When your mind says, “I’m worthless”, counter it with the truth: “I’m struggling, but that doesn’t make me worthless. This pain is temporary!”

Hotlines in Nigeria – Contact these organisations if you are worried about yourself or someone else battling suicidal thoughts

• Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI): (809) 111-6264

• Suicide Prevention Initiative in Nigeria (SURPIN): 080 0078 7746

• Hospitals and Clinics – Don’t be afraid to walk into a teaching hospital or psychiatric clinic for support. Your mental health is as important as your physical health.

Dear Friend, There Is Hope.

Suicidal thoughts often come with a lie: that your life doesn’t matter, that no one cares, that nothing will ever change. But the truth is, your life matters more than you can see right now.

Many students who once battled suicidal thoughts now look back, grateful that they survived. They discovered purpose, healing, and joy on the other side of their pain.

If you are struggling right now, please hold on. Tell someone. Reach out for help. Give tomorrow a chance, you don’t have to carry this weight alone.

Do know that you surely are more than your grades, more than your struggles, and more than this moment of pain. You are needed. You are loved. And the world is better with you in it.