Nigerian comedienne Anita Asuoha, popularly known as “Real Warri Pikin”, has urged the federal government to ensure accessibility and affordability of therapists for Nigerians experiencing suicidal crises or those bereaved by the menace.

Real Warri Pikin made the call in a video broadcast via her verified Instagram account, @realwarripikin, on Sunday.

The comedienne, who revealed that in June 2018 she attempted suicide, said suicide is real and must be taken seriously.

World Suicide Prevention Day is an awareness day observed every September 10 to provide worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides.

She said it was time the government and every individual stood up to ensure that this was checked and victims gained access to therapists within the country.

“It is World Suicide Prevention Day. Do you know that more than 700,000 people die due to committing suicide each year? That means every four seconds, people die.

“It is alarming; we need to come together to prevent suicide; it is real. I have been there.

“I advise the government to make suicide therapists accessible and affordable for victims.

“Therapy is expensive; then I couldn’t afford it, but I can afford it now. Let us consider those who cannot afford it.

“Another way to tackle it is to normalise talking about it; mental health challenges are real, and everything is not spiritual,” she said.

The comedienne advised Nigerians to cultivate the habit of checking on their loved ones and always use kind words when communicating with people.

“Be kind to one another with your words; let’s reduce tough love, which does not come from a place of concern and love. It is not good.

“Let us check on our friends; don’t assume they are okay.

“Things are truly hard, but suicide is not an option. Let us come together to prevent suicide,” she said.

(NAN)