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Depression is common and serious affecting 300 million people worldwide. States of depression lead to feelings of sadness, guilt or worthlessness. Most people also lose interest in activities once enjoyed. Other physical problems include feeling tired, difficulty in concentrating and making decisions. On top of that, changes in sleeping pattern (sleeping too much or insomnia) are common depression symptoms too. Subsequently, in the long term, it cripples a person’s ability to function at work and at home.
In most countries, only less than 10 % of people with depression seek help despite the availability of effective treatment for depression. The reasons why include lack of resources and trained personnel, social stigma associated with mental disorders and inaccurate assessment.
Above all, the worst outcome of depression is suicide. Almost 800 000 lives are lost due to suicide every year. It is also alarming to note that suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people of age 15 to 29.
Recognise Warning Signs of Suicide
Contrary to common belief, suicidal individuals do reach out for help. Feeling depressed and hopeless, they just want to end the pain, but do not know how. Sadly, many lives are lost when society fails to act in time.
Fortunately, it is possible to prevent suicide with timely intervention. By recognising the warning signs, you can stop another person from committing suicide.
The warning signs of suicide include:
Feelings
- Excessive sadness or moodiness
- Hopelessness
- Withdrawal and loss of interest
- Sudden calmness
Action
- Indifferent about appearance or life in general
- Reckless or self-harm behaviour
- Preparations to give away treasured possessions, make a will, buy firearm or poison
Verbal
- Expressions of being a burden to others “Others will be better off without me”
- Expressions of feeling trapped/unbearable pain “Life is meaningless”
- Suicide threats “If you don’t oblige, I will kill myself”
Steps to Help Someone with Suicidal Tendencies
If you know someone who is contemplating suicide, be there for him or her. Lovingly remind that person that depression is temporary and treatable. Encourage him or her to seek professional help. People with a supportive community and assess to treatment are less likely to take their lives than those socially isolated.
However, if someone is in immediate danger of suicide:
- Don’t leave the person alone. Tell a trusted family member or friend about the situation.
- Find out if he or she is under the influence or alcohol or drugs.
- Remove weapons, sharp objects or anything else that could be harmful.
- Contact his or her mental health professional if under treatment.
- Keep the person as calm as possible.
- Call the local suicide hotline.
- Go to the emergency department right away.
Seek Affordable Treatment for Depression
Depression can be so debilitating that it takes away someone’s productivity. Therefore, it is crucial to have affordable treatment options available. Generally, you can choose among these care centres, depending on severity, location and preferences. However, do note that most healthcare centres would require an appointment and a referral letter from your General Practitioner. Therefore make the necessary preparations before visiting one.
Malaysia
- Hotlines: Befrienders
- University of Malaya Medical Centre Psychiatry Clinic
- Other government hospital psychiatric clinic
- Private hospital or clinic
Singapore
- Hotlines: Samaritans of Singapore (SOS), IMH Emergency Helpline
- Counselling assistance: Family Service Centres (FSC)
- Polyclinics and hospitals
- Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
- Private hospital or clinic
Conclusion
Depression may feel like a dark cloud that magnifies your issues, or worse still, makes it look like a dead end. Regardless, talk to someone you trust. In particular, seek treatment for your condition. Slowly, but surely, you will begin to see the silver lining over your circumstances. If you or your loved ones suffer from depression, consult a psychiatrist today.
Further read:
- You are not alone. Seek help before it’s too late
- Are You Missing These Signs of Anxiety and Depression?
- Suicide Prevention is Everybody’s Business: 3 Tips How
Find a Psychiatrist in Malaysia, on GetDoc
Find a Psychiatrist in Singapore, on GetDoc

by Joanne Lee
Multipotentialite. Loves creating and seeing ideas come alive. View all articles by Joanne Lee.