ALOR SETAR, Oct 25 — Empathising and listening to those who suffer from mental health illness with suicidal tendencies can help stop a person from ending their life too soon, Bernama reported today.
Kedah Medical Centre (KMC) Psychiatry and Psychology Consultant Dr Wan Mohd Rushidi Wan Mahmud said that suicidal incidents are no longer an isolated case and had urged for the public to be more open in speaking up about mental health and suicide.
“We have to educate ourselves and others on what are some of the causes that could lead to suicide, how to spot the early signs, empathise with the victim and learn to become a better listener… you only have to listen, not nag.
“Many of those who are suicidal wants to open up, but no one wants to listen. So they only keep it to themselves to the point they cannot take it anymore and take matters into their own hands,” he was quoted by Bernama in the report.
Dr Wan Mohd Rushidi said while some who were diagnosed by psychiatrists for mental health illness would have received treatment, it does not guarantee that they have fully recovered in a short period of time.
He said the first six months post-treatment or after the patient was discharged to return home (if admitted in the hospital) is a critical period as many suicide cases would take place during this time.
“Family members and friends have to play their role and be alert. Don’t let those mentally ill feel that they are alone, help them to rise up again and be free from having suicidal thoughts,” he said.
“Ensure that the timing and place are suitable if we want to listen to their problems. Try to build a private and safe environment that is comfortable and calm.”
Dr Wan Mohd Rushidi said that sometimes those who are suicidal don’t have the intention to die but are doing so as a cry for help.
“Maybe they will at first hurt themselves physically and then this will repeat several times. If you come across such cases, give them some attention as these actions [self-harm] can possibly lead to their death if the matter is not dealt with accordingly,” he said, adding that such incident does only happen among adults but also involves children.
“Counselling teachers have to play their role. If they spot something amiss in a student, then reach out to them as this can have an impact on the students. If it seems to be a lot more serious, then refer them to specialists,” he said.
The Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday was told that 356 suicide cases were reported in the country from 2014 to June 2019.
Those seeking help can contact Befrienders, a 24-hour helpline for those in need, at 03-7956-8145/8144, or email sam@befrienders.org.my. For further details on Befrienders helpline in other states, visit www.befrienders.org.my.
