THE Penang Befrienders hopes to work hand in hand with the state government to raise the collective consciousness of mental health.
Its vice-chairman Saras Pillay said issues pertaining to mental health should not be stigmatised but should be ever so spoken about during the pandemic
“All of us are weathering the same storm but the ability to endure a painful and difficult situation varies for every individual.
“The pandemic has made people vulnerable to negative thoughts that might eventually lead to anxiety, stress, insomnia and even suicidal thoughts.
“Some are even reluctant to seek assistance pertaining to this, as it is seen as a stigma and this is what we are trying to change.
“Thus, we need the support from the state government to disseminate the appropriate information to the public and destigmatise mental health issues,” Saras told a press conference today.
Penang Befrienders is a suicide prevention non-governmental organisation (NGO) that serves the community by being a listening ear to those who are in distress via helpline, WhatsApp messages and email. It has a total of nine centres across the country
Saras also added that the WhatsApp messages received by the Penang Befrienders were primarily from youngsters who are bogged down with various problems.
“We see an urgency in spreading awareness of mental health among adolescents as our WhatsApp messages are mainly from them.
“There is a surge by 20% in the number of WhatsApp messages during this pandemic,” she said.
Saras, who is also the National Council of Befrienders Malaysia (NCOBM) chairman, called upon the community to help in curbing the incidences of suicides by looking out for symptoms of those who are prone to commit such acts.
“The communities out there should play their part as well, be sensitive and do not give judgemental remarks on people who are undergoing rough time mentally and emotionally.
“People who are suicidal tend to exhibit certain behaviours, such as isolating themselves, being pessimistic about life and even talking about suicide.
“Be on alert of such symptoms which could help save a life,” added Saras.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister II Prof Dr P. Ramasamy said organisations such as Befrienders (Penang and nationwide) play a pivotal role in preventing individuals from taking their lives.
“Befrienders has been around for many years, and I believe their services and expertise are of paramount importance to the well-being of the community with regard to their mental health.
“Talking to someone during their ‘last moments’ could sometimes cause them to change their minds; a listening ear is crucial during these moments,” said Ramasamy.
Penang Befrienders chairman Damain Lee, who was also present, said the organisation would like to work with state assemblymen to reach out to the community in their respective constituencies.
Befrienders can be reached at 04-2815161/2811108, 011-56706261 (WhatsApp) or [email protected].
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud