THE Department of Health (DOH) yesterday urged Filipinos to offer help to persons who are at risk of suicide.
In a series of social media posts for the “World Suicide Prevention Day,” the DOH said the public should not hesitate to offer help to others as it may just save their lives.
“To every person facing crisis, a life can be saved by a correct response and understanding,” it said.
“Suicide is preventable. So if you know someone facing a crisis, keep in mind that help and support to them can be readily provided,” it added.
The health department said that proper response can begin by asking directly about suicide, and letting the person describe their thoughts, feelings, and plan of action without having any judgments. It will also help if one can clarify their intent by asking if they have decided how, when, and the steps to execute their plan.
“Using these information, take action to keep them safe; never leave their side; and remove access to means of suicide (e.g. poisonous substance, sharp objects, firearms, other explicitly mentioned tools for their plan),” said the DOH.
The public is then advised to encourage those at risk of suicide to seek mental health professionals/services as soon as possible.
As to how can one recognize if an individual is at risk of suicide, the health department said it can be observed in their words, feelings, and actions.
In their words, one can sense hopelessness or lack of worth, them wanting to die, and some asking about suicide methods.
Severe sadness, mood swings, unexpected rage, and loss of interest, on the other hand, are the signs in their feelings.
As for their actions, the DOH said it can be evident if they are withdrawing in activities, isolating from friends and family, behaving as if without consequence, and ensuring continued care for persons, pets, or possessions that may be left behind after death.
For those in need of mental health services, the DOH said they may call the National Center For Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline 1553.
Mental health services may also be availed via 0966-351-4518 or 0917-899-8726 for Globe/TM subscribers; and 0908-639-2672 for Smart/Sun/TNT subscribers.
Based on NCMH data, in 2021 alone, it has received 21,468 calls in its mental health hotline, with some 7,600 related to suicide.
