Suicide Prevention & Intervention
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023, about 1,000,000 Malaysians (or 4.6% of the population) aged 16 and above suffer from depression, and half of them have thoughts about hurting themselves, or being better off dead.
Additionally, according to the Statistics on Causes of Death, Malaysia, 2024 produced by the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the number of deaths by suicide in Malaysia has increased from 641 in 2020 to 1,068. Meanwhile, the suicide deaths rate increased from 2.0 deaths in 2020 to 3.2 deaths per 100,000 population in 2023.
Despite these alarming numbers, it’s important to remember that suicide can be prevented. We can make a difference. Learning about the things that might make someone at risk, and knowing the signs that someone might be in danger, can help us save lives.
Let’s learn more about suicide below:
Suicide Facts
How to Tell if Someone is Suicidal?
There is no clear list of warning signs for someone who is thinking about suicide. However, sudden changes in actions, behaviour, or attitude are some of the warning signs. On the other hand, someone who is thinking about suicide may not show any warning signs.
If you are concerned that someone you know may be at risk, ask if they are thinking about suicide. One of the ways to get help fast is by calling crisis line like MIASA_YSD-1800 Crisis Helpline and Crisis Whatsapp:
MIASA_YSD-1800 HELPLINE
Other resources in your community include:
• Community leader or Elder
• School or work counselling service
• Hospital emergency department
• Social workers
• Psychologists
• Mental health workers
MENTAL HEALTH TOPICS