LETTERS:The deaths of teenagers that have happened in the past few weeks worry me. It is tragically painful to lose these young lives.
We can't deny that in today's world, the level of stress is so high that it can be difficult to manage at times.
School children especially, endure a tremendous level of stress on a regular basis. Some of the stressors include academic stress, peer pressure, relationship issues, bullying, expectations from parents, teachers as well as oneself.
The burden of having to deal with such issues can adversely impact one's mental health and can even lead to suicide. It is important for parents, teachers, and even friends to be aware of those who may be contemplating suicide.
Some of the warning signs include:
1. Talking or posting on social media about dying.
2. Unbearable emotional pain, including feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
3. Withdrawing and isolating from their friends and family members.
4. Sudden decline in their academic performance.
5. Losing interest in things they used to enjoy.
6. Not taking care of their personal appearance.
7. Significant change in their eating and sleeping patterns.
8. Saying goodbyes and giving away prized possessions.
If you notice someone exhibiting any of the warning signs, please reach out and offer empathetic support by listening to them.
Encourage them to seek help by speaking to a school counsellor, or any adults whom they are comfortable with.
It is crucial that they have a safe space to express their emotional pain and helplines can offer that, so sharing contacts of a helpline such as Befrienders KL and Talian HEAL can be beneficial.
Helplines provide a safe space where one can talk without the fear of being judged while remaining anonymous. Please keep an eye out for those who might be struggling mentally.
If you are facing difficulties, please know that there are individuals out there who care about you and want to help. Do reach out and talk to someone you trust or contact a helpline.
(For free and confidential emotional support, you can contact Befrienders KL at 03-76272929 (24 hours) or sam@befrienders.org.my to talk in a safe space. There is also Talian HEAL by the Ministry of Health at 15555 : 8am–12midnight).
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Patron
BEFRIENDERS KL
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times