Don’t give up on life
SUICIDE is a frightening reality that has become a scary trend in our society. A media report says that there are on average two suicides a day in our country. A medical newsletter reports that suicide would be the country’s second biggest cause of death after heart disease in five to 10 years.
Five per cent of people in the world have tried to kill themselves at least once during their lifetime. In Malaysia, most suicide cases are among people between the ages of 15 and 30, and 50 and 75. Being unable to cope with the mounting pressure in school and work, and unable to deal with examinations, family issues, financial problems and broken relationships, they take their own lives. The elderly group faces problems of loneliness, depression and ageing. Sometimes families commit suicide together.
Some tell-tale signs of a person who is depressed and has a suicidal tendency are feeling down, hopeless and worthless, feeling weepy or crying for no apparent reason, having difficulty sleeping at night, wanting to sleep during the day, loss of appetite, inability to concentrate, lack of interest in previously enjoyable things, irritable and being indecisive.
People with suicidal tendencies usually tell their close friends and colleagues of their intentions. Most of the time, these revelations are not taken seriously by the listeners. “Troubled” people who call support groups such as the Befrienders are those who are well informed of such assistance through the social media.
Counsellors and tutors in primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities have to be more alert and be a “busybody” to identify and look out for students with psychological and emotional problems. Print and electronic media should inform the public of support groups that are available to help.
Religious teachers in temples, churches and mosques should be approachable and open to their followers voicing their feelings and thoughts. Religious authorities should conduct seminars and talks on the value of life and significance of celebrating it. People should come forward and seek treatment for their loved ones, neighbours, colleagues and friends who talk of suicide and have suicidal tendencies.
No matter what the problems or difficulties that loom ahead, if you can eat and enjoy the sunlight and mix good cheer with friends today, enjoy it and thank God for it. Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new and blissful ending. Take charge of your life and learn to celebrate and value life. Talk it out with family and friends and never lose hope. And remember, time heals everything. Be patient and all will fall into place. Do not give up on life!
Samuel Yesuiah Seremban