WHEN life feels meaningless and it seems that everything in the universe is working against you, people sometimes turn to suicide as the easiest way out. The loneliness, anxiety and depression have, after all, made it hard to breathe, and you just want out.
What’s worse is that the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing economic recession has done nothing but amplify and aggravate the situation.
This is evident in recent news reports about the rise in the number of suicide cases in Malaysia as of late.
Within the first quarter of 2021, there was an average of four suicide cases every day for the first three months of 2021, with 336 cases reported to the police. According to the police statistics, 631 suicide cases were reported in 2020, while in 2019 there were 609 cases.
Knowing the signs
It is equally as important to note here that sometimes, people who are thinking suicidal thoughts may not even know that they are depressed.
Certain thoughts, feelings and actions can be signals to let you know that you need help, and as hard as this may sound, the best thing that you can do is pay attention to the signs. And then, ask for help.
To know if depression is causing you to feel like ending your life, ask yourself if you have been feeling sad, down or blue on most days, or if you have lost interest in your work or people you used to enjoy.
Take note also if you have trouble sleeping (or sleeping too much), or if you often think about taking your life or planning how you may attempt it, or if you feel that death is the only solution to your problems.
The ongoing financial distress and family issues arising from the long social isolation brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic has let to plenty of negative emotions, but help and support – from your friends and family members, or even mental health professionals – is often just a phone call away.
If you are lonely, distressed, or having negative thoughts, Befrienders offers free and confidential support 24 hours a day. Contact Befrienders KL at 03-76272929 or 04-281 5161/1108 in Penang, or 05-547 7933/7955 in Ipoh or email [email protected].
You can also reach out to Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (MHPSS) at 03-29359935 or 014-3223392, or Talian Kasih at 15999, or WhatsApp 019-2615999. – July 4, 2021.
