GEORGE TOWN – Governments should put more resources into mental health organisations as well as encourage more people to volunteer their time offering support and counselling services, said Befrienders Worldwide.
Its chairman Neil Hawkins said today that governments should also hold more dialogues with civil society groups to decriminalise suicide.
He added that many people are struggling to cope with the post-pandemic times made worse by war, global economic downturn and the rising cost of living.
“Do not take for any second that we are strong to tackle such issues alone. Humans are fragile beings. We need support. We must open up and not conceal our fears.”
Hawkins said this at a press conference during his visit to Penang Befrienders at Mewah Court apartment complex.
Also present were Penang Befrienders chairman Andrew Tan and National Council of Befrienders Malaysia president Saras Pillay.
Hawkins said there has been no hard data on global suicide rate but feedback from Befrienders call centres globally indicates a rise in cases.
The World Health Organisation estimates an average of 700,000 deaths related to suicides each year.
Meanwhile, Hawkins said the Befrienders centre in Ukraine is besieged with calls and made worse as many of its volunteers have gone to fight in the war, resulting in operations being handled by the centre in Lithuania for the time being.
Befrienders was founded in 1953 by Chad Varah, with presence in 43 countries and more than 30,000 members.
Those suffering from mental health issues can call Befrienders at 03-7627-2929 or email [email protected] for support. – The Vibes, June 20, 2022
