SINGAPORE - Every day, four or five people
in Singapore try to kill themselves, and at least one succeeds.
More alarmingly, doctors and social workers
say people attempting suicide appear to be getting younger and younger, The
Straits Times reported.
While the elderly used to make up the majority
of suicidal people, the number is seeing a gradual move towards those in their
30s and 40s, triggered by issues such as failed relationships and debts, said
Ms Esther Lim, head of medical social services at the Singapore General
Hospital.
Most attempted suicides which end up at
hospitals involve an overdose of medication. Some try to slash their wrists.
For older folks, often the triggers stem from
loneliness, frustration or pain from an illness or disability, said Ms Lim.
Professor Kua Ee Heok, a senior psychiatrist
at the National University Hospital, said the lower numbers of elderly people
attempting suicide may be due to the rising awareness among general
practitioners to look out for older patients who complain of headaches or
sleepless nights as often suffering from depression as the underlying cause.
He said that he hopes to further reduce the
rate of elderly suicides by starting a programme designed to stave off
depression in old people by keeping them active physically, socially and
mentally.
The programme, which will likely take place at
Jurong Point shopping complex, will encourage elderly folks to go to the centre
twice a week for activities such as Taiji and singing.
Each individual will be assigned a case manager
to help them fill up their calenders with activities and ensure they take their
medication in a timely manner.
The hospital is currently recruiting
experienced nurses to run the programme.
AsiaOne
Business & Investment Opportunities
YourVietnamExpert is a division of Saigon Business Corporation Pte Ltd, Incorporated in Singapore since 1994. As Your Business Companion, we propose a range of services in Consulting, Investment and Management, focusing three main economic sectors: International PR; Healthcare & Wellness;and Tourism & Hospitality. We also propose Higher Education, as a bridge between educational structures and industries, by supporting international programs. Sign up with twitter to get news updates with @SaigonBusinessC. Thanks.
No comments:
Post a Comment