To victims of human trafficking, the world is often cruel, barbaric, and bitter. They often feel hopeless. Human trafficking is a serious crime and a flagrant violation of human rights.
Every year, thousands of men, women, and children fall into the trap of human traffickers in their hometowns and abroad. They experience forced labor, physical abuse, sexual slavery, commercial sexual exploitation and other forms of maltreatment.
The effects of human trafficking deeply have an impact on the victim’s mental and physical health. It’s not uncommon to hear that many human trafficking victims experience the following:
- Self-Injury
- Depression
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Posttraumatic stress disorders and anxiety disorders
- Suicidal thoughts
A recent study found that human trafficking survivors have an alarming higher-than-average rate of suicidal thoughts with a percentage of 23% of survivors having attempted suicide, compared with 3% of the population with no prior domestic violence exposure.
A survey was conducted and revealed that the suicide rate is increasing in victims of human trafficking. That’s why it’s very important to recognize the link between human trafficking and suicide.
Most of the survivors who come forward with information about abuse, typically do not reveal their true feelings of hopelessness and despair. Some are often ashamed and afraid. It’s important to let human trafficking victims know they are not alone.
If you are someone you know are experiencing suicidal thoughts, whether they are human trafficking victims are not, here are some things you can do:
- Be a good listener instead of being judgemental
- Encourage them to seek help from Psychologists and mental health professionals
- Help them build strong relationships with others outside of an abusive environment
- Help them connect with support groups and other community resources
Call the Suicide Prevention Hotline listed below:
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the U.S at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255) to reach a trained counselor. Use that same number and press “1” to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.
And you will also find a list of International Suicide Hotlines in the following link:
http://ibpf.org/resource/list-international-suicide-hotlinesIt’s important to know that your life matters and you are not alone!
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