KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia takes greater strides towards Covid-19 endemicity, the spectre of suicides arising from the pandemic should not be forgotten, said Befrienders KL patron Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He said although Malaysia appeared to be improving as it recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic, the aftereffects lingered.
"The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic has affected our lives in many ways. Some lost their jobs, some were separated from their loved ones, and some had issues working from home.
"There are people who are still feeling anxious and are emotionally distressed. Some may be having suicidal ideation, too.
"Many of these issues have a deep impact on our emotional well-being. This is evident with the increase in the number of calls and emails received by The Befrienders KL during the period," he said in a statement today.
Lee cited data from the Home Ministry, which showed that 1,660 people died by suicide during the Movement Control Order (MCO) from March 18, 2020, to Dec 31 last year.
Lee said family members, friends, colleagues, classmates and members of the community could support those in distress by listening to them.
"Be observant of people around us, learn what are the warning signs, and check in on them when we notice that they are struggling.
"Sometimes just asking a simple question such as 'How are you feeling?' or 'Are you okay?' makes a difference.
"Showing our concern and listening with empathy bring much-needed relief, and lessen their isolation and hopelessness. It shows that there are people who still care."
Lee said those struggling with mental health issues might benefit from getting professional consultation.
"However, seeking professional help may not be easy for some, mainly due to stigma.
"Therefore, we can help by encouraging them and perhaps accompanying them to see a professional.
"Mental health services are available at all public hospitals, Pusat Mentari, non-governmental organisations and private sectors."
Lee also lauded the Health Ministry for providing affordable psychiatric care for the people.
He, however, said the government might want to consider providing subsidies for people to seek help from the private sector to ease the burden of public hospitals.
"There is also a need to train more mental health professionals, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, counsellors, and social workers.
"For those who do not need to see a professional, we can encourage them to call a helpline, such as Befrienders KL, which provides a safe space to talk about anything that is troubling them."
On continued talks over the decriminalisation of suicide, Lee said it was high time that the authorities finally act.
"Even the World Health Organisation (WHO) found no empirical evidence that decriminalising suicide would increase the rate of suicide.
"Instead, penalising those who attempt suicide increases the stigma and prevents people who are suicidal from reaching out for help.
"Removal of Section 309 of the Penal Code will give us more accurate data, and this will be beneficial in designing targeted suicide prevention work.
"I sincerely hope that we will be able to move forward to decriminalise suicide soonest possible."
He said Sept 10 was World Suicide Prevention Day, intending to raise awareness of suicide prevention.
"In fact, suicide prevention efforts should be made continuously, and we should focus on our well-being daily.
"Take a moment to observe those around you, and if you notice anyone who seems to be struggling emotionally, please take time to reach out to them.
"Your action may help bring hope to them."
Lee said confidential emotional support was available at Befrienders KL at 03-76272929 (24 hours) or [email protected]
