Swati Kumari : From being a suicide survivor to becoming a suicide savior
What ignited the spark in you to be an activist?
In 2013, my mom died to suicide. That incident had scattered me completely from inside. I was also seriously ill and was going through treatment for a long period. She was the only drive of my life and after that everything seem as it froze. In fact, the thought came to my mind that what am I living for now?
I researched and read a lot about suicide and related topics. Then only I found that WHO report and it's work for suicide prevention, IASP and then I searched for suicide prevention programs and NGO and helplines. I found some and met few if them. I realised that inspite of a large number of people being affected by suicide, people are not much aware about this topic. Not only the person who die, but also his or her family suffer with this...life long.
I have already lived in bangalore so decided to work with the Sahai helpline to create awareness about suicide prevention in India. In the process, I created a photo story book- amayra : the essence of life, with help of Patna based photographer Saurav Anuraj (meow studio). I decided to make a photo story book because most of the people want to read something short and fascinating. I created this book for everyone whether they are a usual reader or any busy person. This book is not only one time read, you may read it whenever you feel you lack some positive vibe and need a motivation.
There is a international conference on suicide prevention in Malaysia and I am going to present there. Link for the conference www.iasp2017.org The journey has just begun, a long way to go...
What motivates you?
My mom..her memories always there to motivate me. And also When people approach me to share their problems and seek my suggestion, or they message me that my books inspired and motivated them.... These things drive me towards my goal.
How many hours do you work a day on average?
Basically I am a writer. I am writing another book, write articles and also counsel people. I need six hours sleep daily, apart from that I manage my time to complete my work on the daily basis.
I am not someone who give up. I take pause or a break. Ad restart the work again with a new enthusiasm.
How has being an activist affected your personal life?
Earlier mostly I use to think as an individual, my life, my problems. Now I feel that life is much more than me, my, mine...
What are your hobbies? What do you do in your non-work time?
Writing was my hobby..now it is my profession too. If I get some time, I sleep to reenergise myself.
What three pieces of advice would you give to who want to become a Social activist?
You don't become a social activitist because you wanna be one, you see a problem in society and feel the urge inside to do something and you work towards solving the issue. That turn you into a social activist.
Thanks Swati and we wish you all the best for International Suicide Prevention Conference.
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