Anna Blomberg raises awareness about mental health following daughter’s suicide in Sweden

Anna Blomberg describes her daughter Joline as a joyful and empathetic person with a big heart, who had the ability to see those around her. After her daughter’s suicide, Anna has been open about the circumstances in hopes of preventing speculation and encouraging discussions about mental health issues. “We need to be more aware that a person who is struggling does not always look or act a certain way. We need to move away from the image that mental illness is only represented by someone sitting alone at the back of the classroom without friends,” she states.

September 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day, established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The day aims to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Ullakarin Nyberg, a psychiatrist and senior physician at Northern Stockholm Psychiatry, emphasizes the need for more preventative measures. This includes creating a safer environment, like ensuring supervised railway crossings, and providing better support for parents and the mental health of students.

Nyberg advocates for more education in schools about mental health and self-help strategies and suggests that communities need accessible services for those experiencing such issues. She highlights the importance of asking for help: “We are somewhat poor at seeking help in our culture. It seems we are expected to manage everything on our own, which is not true. In times of distress, being alone makes you vulnerable.”

If you or someone you know is facing suicidal thoughts or severe mental distress, contact a psychiatric emergency service or dial emergency services for immediate assistance. Various support organizations are also available, providing resources and assistance.