Every Life Matters

Have you ever had thoughts of suicide or felt like life was too overwhelming to continue? Many people experience fleeting thoughts of self-harm or suicide at some point in their lives. These thoughts, known as suicidal ideation, can affect anyone facing emotional distress — regardless of age, gender, or background. For some, these feelings may pass quickly; for others, they can become frequent, intense, and deeply concerning. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it is important to know that help is available and that you are not alone.

Suicide — defined as intentionally causing one’s own death — is a major global public health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 700,000 people die by suicide every year. In Singapore, the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) reported 476 suicides in 2022 — a 25.9% increase from the previous year and the highest number in over 20 years. Suicide was the leading cause of death among those aged 10–29 that year, and men accounted for 66.6% of all suicides.

With an average of more than one suicide a day in Singapore, the impact on families, friends, and communities is profound and long-lasting. Yet suicide is preventable. By understanding the myths, recognising risk factors and warning signs, and offering support, each of us can play a part in saving lives.

Myths and Facts About Suicide

Misinformation about suicide can increase stigma and make it harder for people to seek help. By challenging these myths, we create space for open conversation and support.

Myth 1: Asking someone about suicide might “put the idea” in their head.
Fact: Talking about suicide does not increase the risk. In fact, it can be lifesaving. Asking someone if they are thinking about suicide shows care and concern and gives them a chance to share what they’re going through.

Myth 2: Suicide happens suddenly and cannot be prevented.
Fact: Suicide is often the result of a process — from early thoughts, to planning, to attempts. Recognising risk factors and warning signs early can help prevent suicide.

Myth 3: People who think about suicide truly want to die and cannot be helped.
Fact: Many people experiencing suicidal thoughts feel ambivalent. They do not necessarily want to die — they want their emotional pain to end. Support, compassion, and mental health care can bring hope and recovery.

Myth 4: Suicide only affects people who seem sad or depressed.
Fact: There is no single “look” for suicide risk. People who appear cheerful or successful can also struggle silently. Paying attention to changes in mood or behaviour is crucial.

Risk Factors

Risk factors are circumstances that may increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts or behaviour. While mental health conditions — such as depression or substance use — often play a role, not everyone who dies by suicide has a diagnosed condition. In fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that 54% of people who die by suicide had no known mental health diagnosis at the time.

Other common risk factors include:

• A previous suicide attempt or a family history of suicide.

• Serious or chronic health conditions, including pain or disability.

• Significant losses or life changes (e.g., breakups, academic setbacks, job loss, or bereavement).

• Prolonged stress (e.g., bullying, abuse, or financial hardship).

• Social isolation or lack of support networks.

• Limited access to mental or physical healthcare.

• Stigma, shame, or fear of seeking help.

Warning Signs

Warning signs are signals that someone may be at immediate risk of suicide. While some suicides happen impulsively, many people give clues or show changes before an attempt.

Look out for:

• Talking or writing about wanting to die (e.g., “I wish I wasn’t here,” “The world would be better without me”).

• Expressing hopelessness or feeling like a burden.

• Intense sadness, mood swings, or emotional numbness.

• Changes in sleep patterns (too much or too little).

• Anxiety, agitation, or increased irritability.

• Searching for ways to harm themselves or giving away personal belongings.

• Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities once enjoyed.

• Increased risky behaviour (e.g., reckless driving, substance misuse).

• Saying goodbye or expressing finality.

Protective Factors

Protective factors can help reduce the risk of suicide. They do not guarantee safety but can provide resilience and hope during difficult times.

These include:

• Access to timely, effective mental health care.

• Strong connections to family, friends, or community.

• A sense of cultural identity, belonging, or spiritual belief.

• Problem-solving and coping skills.

• Resilience — the ability to recover from adversity.

How You Can Help Someone at Risk

Supporting someone in crisis can feel overwhelming, but your presence and compassion can make a difference.

• Listen without judgment. Create a safe space for them to share their feelings. Avoid interrupting or offering quick fixes.

• Take them seriously. Show empathy and concern. Acknowledge their pain instead of minimising it.

• Reduce immediate risk. If possible, help make their environment safer (e.g., by staying with them, or removing dangerous items if safe to do so).

• Encourage professional help. Offer to help them find a mental health professional or accompany them to an appointment if they feel comfortable.

• Stay connected. Keep in touch regularly. Invite them to social activities and remind them that they are not alone.

• Promote self-care. Encourage rest, exercise, and healthy routines.

• Make a safety plan. Help them identify trusted people and resources to contact during a crisis.

• Educate yourself. Learn about local helplines, crisis services, and mental health resources.

Supporting someone can be emotionally demanding. Take care of your own well-being too — talk to professionals or support groups if you feel overwhelmed.

Conclusion

People often consider suicide when their emotional pain feels unbearable and they see no other way out. But suicide is not inevitable — with compassion, awareness, and timely help, lives can be saved. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember: every life matters, and help is always available.

If you need support in Singapore, you can reach out to:

• Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) — 24-hour hotline: 1767 or https://www.sos.org.sg

• Institute of Mental Health (IMH) Helpline — 6389 2222

• Emergency services — Call 995 if someone is in immediate danger

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