ATTENTION!
Unresolved problems can cause significant distress to anyone, and not just those with mental illnesses. Such distress can eventually lead to self-harm, and even suicide.
Suicide
Suicide is among the top three causes of death among young persons aged 15 to 35 years old1. People who commit suicide believe that no one can help them, and that there is no other way out of the pain except death. Timely intervention will save lives. Do recognise the warning signs and offer your help!
Note: ALWAYS treat suicidal thoughts and attempts seriously! They are warning signs of someone in desperate need of help!
Getting help
IF YOU’RE FEELING SUICIDAL NOW,
Call 999 or the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) at 1-767 (Both operate 24/7). Stay on the phone with them until someone comes to you. Or, head down to the Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department of the nearest hospital.
Offering help to a loved one in need
Don’t be afraid to talk to someone whom you think is contemplating suicide. It will NOT increase the likelihood of it happening. Instead,
- Treat it seriously.
- Listen and don’t be judgmental.
- Stay with the person and do not leave the person alone.
- Seek immediate help from an adult you trust – a teacher, parent or counsellor.
Alternatively, call 999 or the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) at 1-767 (Both operate 24/7). Or, bring him/her to the Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department of the nearest hospital.
Practical tips for keeping yourself safe
Creating a safety plan would allow you to be more aware of the situations where you may feel suicidal, available resources in your community, as well as concrete steps that you could take to ensure your personal safety.
1World Health Organisation. Preventing Suicide (2000), www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO_MNH_MBD_00.4
