THE rise in suicide and attempted suicide cases in Penang between January and May this year is frightening.
The state alone has recorded 53 suicide reports and 19 attempted suicide cases during this period based on data shared by the police.
With the ongoing national lockdown under Phase One of the National Recovery Plan (NRP), many people from the low income family are facing a tough time to put food on the table.
Some of them could not even commit to their monthly loan instalment coupled with utilities and other miscellaneous expenses.
The series of lockdowns have taken a toll on a lot of people with many hoping that the Federal Government would loosen the restrictions.
With the spike of suicide and attempted suicide cases, Buletin Mutiara approached a few counsellors and care-line services for their advice and comments.
According to the Penang Association of Counselling and Psychology (PACP) president Margarita Malaya Pillay, many people out there are facing depression due to the ongoing restrictions.
She said some of them do not have any avenues or platforms to express their sadness and difficulties amid the pandemic period.
“Some have lost their jobs and have faced a host of family matters. Some are unable to purchase essential items for their families.
“Because of all these factors, some resorted to suicide. This, however, is not the solution as they need to think rationally.
“Under these circumstances, they need a listener to listen to their problems. Everyone in the community needs to do their part by rendering support to each other.
“Mental health is important for everyone of us in this challenging time. We need to speak out when we are facing any difficulties,” she told Buletin Mutiara.
Concurring with her was Sneham Malaysia president Datuk Dr Florence Sinniah, who revealed that they had received a total of 425 calls from January to June this year.
“Out of these calls, 45% of them have the intention to take their own lives. When I pick up such calls, I will advise them to think rationally and avoid taking any untoward steps.
“They poured out aplenty grievances. These included financial difficulties, unemployment, salary and allowances being reduced and family and relationship matters.
“In fact, some of them who stay in a cramped unit are fed up with the restrictions imposed by the authorities. They have nowhere to go and are unable to carry out their daily routine.
“This has caused them to be depressed and become sluggish. Hence, I hope those facing all sorts of problems to be patient and do not hesitate to seek assistance when in dire need of help,” she said.
Befrienders’ Penang chairman Damian Lee shared his concern over the rising suicide cases.
“In this time, most of the people are seeking psychological help due to personal problems.
“Some may not adapt to changing their lifestyles due to restrictions imposed,” he added.
Home Dynamics Training House chief executive officer Chan Wai Yoke said the number of calls received has increased over the last few months.
“Many of them are facing depression and need someone to talk to.
“At our centre, we try our best to calm them down and provide a platform for them to express their feelings,” she said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix courtesy of interviewees