The pandemic has led to increasing suicide rates throughout Malaysia. Ardy Ayadali, publicity director of Befrienders Kuala Lumpur, tells FMT that the organisation has been receiving far more calls than usual.
The help hotline received 3,724 calls in June alone, with many concerned about their threatened livelihoods.
According to Ardy, many Malaysians think suicidal people are mentally or spiritually weak and should simply just cheer up.
“Another misconception is that people commit suicide without warning, when in fact, most people communicate their intent beforehand, blatantly or subtly,” he says.
It is not easy to deduce who might be contemplating suicide as people tend to keep such thoughts to themselves. However, if someone you know well starts behaving out of character, pay attention.
Here are some signs that indicate an individual might be considering ending their lives through suicide. Note that these are broad indicators that might not apply in every case, but it is nevertheless good to recognise the signs.
1. Talking or hinting about it
Take note when someone starts talking about suicide, especially if the subject comes up out of the blue. They might ask whether you have ever considered suicide before, or how you would do it – basically getting your input on potential self-harm.
2. Gifting their belongings
When a loved one is suddenly overly generous, it could suggest they no longer have any need for earthly belongings and wish to give them away. Some people might make sudden attempts to amend their wills and ensure their affairs are in order.
3. Sleeping poorly
For people who are overcome with stress or burdened with dark thoughts, sleep is usually hard to come by. Be on the lookout if someone is noticeably tired from lack of sleep, especially if he or she has never had any previous sleep disorders.
4. Losing interest in hobbies
Anhedonia – the inability to feel pleasure in normally pleasurable activities – is a common trademark of those who are depressed. Sadness, Ardy says, can be overwhelming to the point that a person loses interest in things they used to find enjoyable.
With their lives feeling meaningless, activities and hobbies that used to make them happy will no longer be adequate.
5. Lacking energy or becoming reserved
Depressed people often lack the energy to get through each day. Many who contemplate suicide spend their days inactive or staying in bed. Instead of breaking down and making a scene, they usually distance themselves and become quiet.
6. Abusing drugs or alcohol
When people feel lost or desperate, substances are a way for them to potentially escape their problems. Some might be driven to view drugs or alcohol as a means of numbing, or even ending, their suffering.
7. Obtaining a dangerous object
There is nothing wrong with someone buying a length of rope or a boxcutter, but coupled with any of the previous signs, it could be a warning.
8. Engaging in risky behaviour
Related to the two previous points – be on the alert if a loved one drives recklessly, walks into traffic without caution, or picks fights with strangers, especially if these are out of character.
9. Self-injury
This is one of the biggest signs that all is not well. This often manifests in self-cutting, though some might choose to burn or poison themselves instead.
A suicidal person might do this to test whether they have the resolve to go through with their plan. The physical pain is said to be an escape from the emotional one.
10. Previous attempts
As suicidal tendencies are hard to shake, a person who has previously attempted to end their life might try it again, especially if he or she is depressed or under duress.
How you can help
Depression, unlike most diseases, cannot be immediately treated with a pill. Antidepressants can help, but an ironic side effect is that they could trigger suicidal thoughts.
When someone loses access to their medication or tries to get off them too quickly, it could bring on a depression wave that may lead to another suicide attempt.
To keep morale up, Ardy suggests keeping in contact with your friends and loved ones on a regular basis. “Physical distancing doesn’t mean you have to distance yourself socially,” he says.
He also encourages people to partake in acts of social charity. “Join in the movement, help out and give to the less fortunate, as it can keep your own spirits up,” he advises.
If you or your loved ones need help, Befrienders Kuala Lumpur can be reached around the clock at 03-76272929. Contact details of other Befrienders centres can be found here.