WE REFER to the letters published in my paper, "Get help if family is under strain" (Nov 19) and "Suicide is never a solution"(Nov 20).

Indeed, individuals or families can and should seek professional help when they feel overwhelmed by certain stressful events in their lives. During such difficult times, people may find life unbearable or see no solution to their problems.

They may then conclude that suicide is the only way to stop the pain. More often than not, the stigma surrounding suicide prevents those at risk from seeking assistance. The pain and suffering a suicidal person feels need to be recognised and seeking help should not be regarded as a sign of weakness.

Often, people who are in the best position to detect risk and help prevent suicide are members of the community who are in contact with at-risk individuals.

If you or someone you know exhibits warning signs such as unusual behavioural changes, or if a person expresses intense negative feelings or suicidal thoughts/threats, seek professional help immediately.

Anyone in crisis who is thinking of suicide or is affected by suicide can call the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) 24-hour hotline on 1800-221-4444 or s e n d a n e - m a i l t o pat@samaritans.org.sg SOS provides confidential 24-hour emotional support by trained volunteers.

It also seeks to raise awareness of suicide via its annual Suicide Awareness Week, and through ongoing workshops on suicide intervention and postvention for gatekeepers and counsellors.

Part of SOS' community outreach also includes holding talks and workshops in schools and tertiary institutions, to help increase the awareness of suicide, as well as the resources available.

Together with the community, let us all work towards suicide prevention.

MS CHRISTINE WONG
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SAMARITANS OF SINGAPORE

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