World Suicide Prevention Day
According to WHO, someone takes their own life every 40 seconds. And in the Philippines, the number of suicides centers around the age group of 15 to 24 years old. It is a serious matter yet the culture regarding suicide in the Philippines continues to struggle.
Being a Catholic Country may also have an indirect impact on the suicide rates in the country. Because suicide is considered a sin in the Bible, the issue is commonly hushed upon by the people. Hence, it is not openly discussed within family members or friends. Also, there is a stigma regarding mental health issues in the Philippines. People experiencing depression or anxiety are judged upon or brushed with toxic positivity by the people around them. Remarks like “kaartehan lang yan,” “mag pray ka lang,” “KSP (kulang sa pansin) lang yan,” and “nasa isip mo lang yan,” are some of the comments thrown on people with suicidal ideations. What these people don’t know is that these mental health issues are not merely in their mind, it is a hormonal imbalance that may or may not be caused by external factors, traumas, or genetics.
How to Save A Life
Spotting a person that is likely to commit suicide might be hard depending on personality of each one. Some would exhibit signs of suicidal ideation while some may not. Self-injury is one of the Parasuicidal Behaviors seen in people who are likely to commit suicide. It may be seen through cutting marks on their wrist or thighs using blades. Another is alcohol-dependence that is caused by wanting to escape from their present situation. Whatever the sign maybe, once suicidal ideation is seen with someone you might know, the helpful steps to do is to listen, discuss, and seek professional help.
Suicide Hotlines
There are many ways for you to reach out for help, we have listed down the different ways on how you can reach out and talk to a mental health professional. Don’t worry about your information and any of the conversation that will happen during your talk, it will be protected and be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
Free Online Services
Philippine Mental Health Association online counseling: Get in touch with them via Facebook Messenger or through pmhacds@gmailcom / 0917-565-2036.
Mental Health First Responders Emotional/Peer Support Services – reach them through their google form here.
Hotlines
Hopeline PH Hotlines:
0917-558-4673 (Globe)
0918-873-4673 (Smart)
02-88044673 (PLDT)
2919 (toll-free for Globe and TM)
NCMH Crisis Hotline:
0917-899-USAP (8727)
0917-989-USAP (8727)
Manila Lifeline Center
Phone: (02) 8969191
Mobile phone: 0917-854-9191
For more sources of help please check this article for siklabo.ph about Mental Health Resources.
Remember that support or criticism might mean the difference between life and death. Save a life today.