Last week, Health director-general Tan Sri Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah revealed that on average, almost four suicide cases were reported to the police every single day in the first quarter of 2021.
This, due to the fear of COVID-19 which has affected us all in different ways.
Photo via Voice of America
Crazy Rich Asians star, Henry Golding shared his concerns over the alarming rise of suicides and those attempting it in his home country, Malaysia, due to factors brought on by the prolonged lockdown following the ongoing battle with COVID-19.
The British-Malaysian actor said in a video on his Instagram that it was important to speak up about this issue and has challenged fellow Malaysians to reach out to others in their lives, not just to make small talk, but also enquire on their well-being.
“It can be so simple. Think of three friends who may need that text or that small call for three to four minutes, just to check on them. Really ask them how they are doing and coping with everything,” he said in the video.
He also said that in these trying times, people may take for granted their mental state and emotional fragility.
Golding also urged his fellow Malaysians who are having dark thoughts about themselves to connect with someone or reach out to support organisations such as Befrienders Malaysia and the Malaysian Mental Health Association for help.
“I know you’re all locked up and it would be nice to talk to people. And hearing somebody say they’re thinking of you can make such a drastic change,” he said.
According to NST, the total of 631 suicide cases were recorded in 2020, 468 cases from January to May 2021, and 609 cases in 2019.
Selangor recently recorded the highest number of cases at 117 as of May this year.
It’s important that you look out for the signs and symptoms of depression so that you can take the first steps to feeling better and overcoming the problem.
If you are feeling lonely, distressed or having negative thoughts, please reach out to a loved one or these mental health services for help!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
