KUALA LUMPUR: The stigma surrounding suicide needs to be dispelled amid rising suicide rates in Malaysia, said a psychiatrist.
Dr Hazli Zakaria said conversations about suicide should no longer be taboo, pointing out that anyone, regardless of their circumstances, can experience suicidal thoughts.
“These thoughts are symptoms of underlying conditions.
“Just as some people lose their sense of smell and taste when they contract Covid-19, thoughts of suicide are often a symptom of depression and other mental health issues.
“These conditions can be treated if we take measures to help the affected person.”
He also highlighted the importance of addressing the stigma faced by people contemplating suicide or those who have survived suicide attempts.
People who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts often behave differently from their usual selves, he said.
Other signs to watch for, said Dr Hazli, include changes in routine, sleep patterns and appetite, as well as social withdrawal.
He added that people struggling with these thoughts often conceal their intentions well, which is why it is crucial for those who notice to approach them with genuine care and concern.
“Sometimes, just inviting them out for a drink or an outing can make a big difference,” he said.
Dr Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan, dean of the Faculty of Psychology and Social Sciences at Cyberjaya University, also stressed the importance of reaching out to the right people for help.“Sometimes, it may not be family or friends but counsellors, trainers or teachers,” she said, adding that there are also suicide hotlines available for support.
This comes as the number of suicides in Malaysia continues to rise, with a reported total of 4,440 cases between 2019 and 2023, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi earlier this year.
In 2019, there were 609 cases recorded, followed by 621 in 2020, 1,142 in 2021, 981 in 2022 and 1,087 last year.
Those suffering from mental health issues or are contemplating suicide can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929, visit www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers and operating hours, or email sam@befrienders.org.my).
