There were a total of 397 reported suicides in Singapore in 2018, a 10 percent increase from the 361 cases the year before, according to a report of the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) (Source: Pixabay) Singapore (VNA) – There were a totalof 397 reported suicides in Singapore in 2018, a 10 percent increase from the361 cases the year before, according to a report of the Samaritans of Singapore(SOS).
Notably, 94 cases were of people between 10and 29 years old. Meanwhile, suicide of male teenagers peaked at its highestsince 1991 with 19 deaths in 2018, rising nearly three times from seven deathsin 2017.
Experts said academic stress, peer pressureand uncertainties about their future are possible causes for suicidal thoughtsin teens, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression mayintensify the problem.
Young people lacking problem-solving and self-helpskills also think of negative choices, including taking their lives.
The SOS noted that young Singaporean peopleare now more willing to reach out for help. In 2018, among those who wrote to theSOS for emotional support, more than 78 percent were between 10 and 29 years old.
But more young people reaching out forprofessional help could mean they still feel uncomfortable talking about itwith their loved ones, experts warned.
The Ministry ofEducation (MOE) and Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) of Singaporeare very concerned about the spike in the number of youth suicides this year.
The MSF said it pays special attention tovulnerable youths, such as those who have been abused or ill-treated, andscreens them to detect mental health concerns and self-harm risks.
MSF psychologists also work closely withcase managers and caregivers to develop case plans and interventions that takeinto account the particular circumstances of the individual.
Schools also encourage students to look outfor and support one another, as well as point peers in distress to seek helpfrom trusted adults. Most schools have rolled out peer support programmes, the MOEsaid.
The objective is to build psychologicalresilience in youths, raise awareness on mental health issues, identify andsupport those at risk of suicide, and intervene in crisis situations whereurgent help is needed.-VNA
Notably, 94 cases were of people between 10and 29 years old. Meanwhile, suicide of male teenagers peaked at its highestsince 1991 with 19 deaths in 2018, rising nearly three times from seven deathsin 2017.
Experts said academic stress, peer pressureand uncertainties about their future are possible causes for suicidal thoughtsin teens, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression mayintensify the problem.
Young people lacking problem-solving and self-helpskills also think of negative choices, including taking their lives.
The SOS noted that young Singaporean peopleare now more willing to reach out for help. In 2018, among those who wrote to theSOS for emotional support, more than 78 percent were between 10 and 29 years old.
But more young people reaching out forprofessional help could mean they still feel uncomfortable talking about itwith their loved ones, experts warned.
The Ministry ofEducation (MOE) and Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) of Singaporeare very concerned about the spike in the number of youth suicides this year.
The MSF said it pays special attention tovulnerable youths, such as those who have been abused or ill-treated, andscreens them to detect mental health concerns and self-harm risks.
MSF psychologists also work closely withcase managers and caregivers to develop case plans and interventions that takeinto account the particular circumstances of the individual.
Schools also encourage students to look outfor and support one another, as well as point peers in distress to seek helpfrom trusted adults. Most schools have rolled out peer support programmes, the MOEsaid.
The objective is to build psychologicalresilience in youths, raise awareness on mental health issues, identify andsupport those at risk of suicide, and intervene in crisis situations whereurgent help is needed.-VNA
VNA
