PENANG: Low self-esteem is the main cause of suicide among youths, according to managing consultant Daniel Liew.
He said such cases were on the rise simply because the victims did not value themselves.
“A person who is contemplating suicide often lacks self-confidence and feels a sense of hopelessness, insignificance and worthlessness.
“As he feels that nobody loves or values him, he may start abusing himself by drinking, smoking and using drugs before deciding to end his life,” he told newsmen after conducting a motivation talk on “Self-Esteem: The Importance To Successful Living” at KDU Penang yesterday.
Liew, who has 11 years of experience in conducting similar talks, said to boost children’s self-esteem, parents should spend quality time with them.
“Reading a newspaper or washing a car at home should not be viewed as spending time with the family. Taking one’s son to the movies or playing a board game with him is.
“Parents should not blame teachers for their children’s failures. If a child can’t get support from his parents, where else can he turn to?” he said, adding that parents should also be able to say “I love you” or “I’m sorry” to their children.
About 100 students from SM Perempuan Methodist and SM Lelaki Methodist attended the half-day talk organised by Befrienders Penang.
A volunteer recruitment session will be held by Befrienders Penang on June 23. Those interested can call 04-2815161 or 04-2811108 or visit its website at http://www.befpen.org.
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