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It's Okay to Not Be Okay: Ending the Stigma and Preventing Suicide in Malaysia

  • MSCP
  • 11 minutes ago
  • 6 min read

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In conjunction with suicide awareness month and the Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology (MSCP) ongoing mission to promote mental well-being and reduce stigma, we call for a national conversation on suicide prevention, urging compassion, awareness, and action.


Suicide is a critical public health issue, yet it is often shrouded in silence and misconception. Globally, it is estimated that over 700,000 people die by suicide every year, with many more attempting it (World Health Organization, 2024). In Malaysia, the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019 indicated that the prevalence of suicidal ideation among adults was 0.5%, translating to an estimated 124,000 individuals (Institute for Public Health, 2020). Alarmingly, the suicide deaths rate has been rising from 2.0 deaths in 2020 to 3.2 deaths per 100,000 population in 2023. Every one of these numbers represents a person in profound pain, and their struggles are often preventable.



Recognising Warning Signs

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MSCP encourages the public to be aware of common warning signs, which may include:

  • Talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, being a burden to others, or having no reason to live.

  • Behavioural changes, such as increased use of alcohol or drugs, withdrawing from activities and social contact, sleeping too much or too little, or giving away prized possessions.

  • Mood changes, including depression, anxiety, loss of interest, rage, irritability, or humiliation.


Myth or Fact? 

Dispelling myths is crucial to creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to seek help.
Dispelling myths is crucial to creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to seek help.

  1. Myth: Talking about suicide will put the idea in someone's head.

    Fact: Asking directly about suicide does not increase risk. In fact, open, honest, and compassionate conversation can reduce anxiety and help a person feel understood, often serving as a critical first step toward safety (Jahn et al., 2020).


  1. Myth: People who talk about suicide are just seeking attention.

    Fact: All talk of suicide must be taken seriously. It is often a desperate plea for help and an indication of severe distress. It is a sign that someone is struggling and needs immediate support.


  1. Myth: Suicide happens without warning.

    Fact: Most individuals display warning signs, either through their words or behaviours. Learning to recognise these signs can save a life.


  1. Myth: People who die by suicide are selfish or taking the easy way out.

    Fact: This is one of the most harmful and stigmatising myths. Individuals experiencing overwhelming suicidal thoughts are often in intense psychological pain and feel hopeless. Their thinking becomes narrowed, and they may genuinely believe their death will relieve a burden on their loved ones. It is not a choice, but a outcome of untreated mental health distress (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 2023).


  1. Myth: Once someone is suicidal, they will be suicidal forever.

    Fact: Suicidal crises are most often short-term and situation-specific. While the underlying causes (like depression) need management, the intense desire to die by suicide is not permanent. With appropriate intervention, support, and coping strategies, people can and do recover and go on to live fulfilling lives (World Health Organization, 2024).


  1. Myth: Improvement after a suicidal crisis means the risk is over.

    Fact: This period can be a critical window. Sometimes, when a person suddenly becomes calm or cheerful after a severe depression, it may signal that they have made a final decision to attempt suicide and feel a sense of relief. It is essential to maintain support and vigilance during this time and ensure they are engaged with professional help (National Institute of Mental Health, 2023).


  1. Myth: Only people with a mental health condition are suicidal.

    Fact: While mental health conditions are a significant risk factor, suicide is a complex issue that can also be influenced by overwhelming life events, such as chronic pain, financial crisis, loss, or trauma. However, in many cases, these stressful events occur alongside an undiagnosed or untreated mental health condition (Ministry of Health Malaysia, 2022).


  1. Myth: Talking about suicide is a private family matter and shouldn't be discussed publicly.

    Fact: Silence and secrecy are enemies of prevention. Open, responsible, and compassionate public discussion is essential to reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking, and educate the community on how to respond. It saves lives. The key is to talk about it in a way that is informed, hopeful, and focuses on prevention and resources (Befrienders Kuala Lumpur, 2023).



What You Can Do: #BeThe1ToHelp

If you are concerned about someone, your compassionate and informed response can be a lifeline. The MSCP advocates using the L.E.A.R.N. model – a simple, evidence-based framework to guide your actions.


L: Look for Signs

Be vigilant about the warning signs of suicide. This includes listening for verbal cues (like talking about being a burden or having no future), noticing behavioural changes (such as social withdrawal, increased substance use, or giving away possessions), and observing mood shifts (like deep despair, rage, or sudden calm after a period of depression). Trust your instincts if something feels wrong.


E: Empathise and Engage

Initiate a private, quiet conversation. Express your concern without judgment using "I" statements, such as "I've noticed you've seemed really down lately, and I'm worried about you." Listen actively and validate their feelings. You do not need to have the solutions; your goal is to show you care and that their feelings are heard and valid.


A: Ask Directly

Do not avoid the question. Asking directly, "Are you thinking about suicide?" or "Does it ever get so bad that you think about ending your life?" is one of the most important steps. Contrary to myth, this does not plant the idea. Instead, it reduces the person's isolation and anxiety by allowing them to speak openly about their pain, which can be a profound relief.


R: Refer and Reassure

Reassure the person that they are not alone and that help is available. Encourage them to connect with a mental health professional. Offer to help them make an appointment, find information for a helpline, or even accompany them to their first visit. In immediate risk situations, do not leave them alone and contact emergency services or a crisis hotline together.


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N: Next Steps and Follow-up

Your support shouldn't end after the first conversation. Check in on them regularly. A simple text or call to ask, "How are you doing today?" can make a significant difference. Following up shows continued care, helps them stay connected, and can encourage them to continue seeking help.


By learning and applying this model, every one of us can play a part in preventing suicide and building a more supportive community.


Where to Seek Immediate Help in Malaysia

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out to these 24/7, confidential, and free support services:

  • Befrienders Kuala Lumpur: Call 03-7627 2929 | Email sam@befrienders.org.my | Website: www.befrienders.org.my

  • Lifeline Malaysia: Call 15995 | Website: https://lifeline.org.my 

  • Talian Kasih: Call 15999 (24/7 Helpline for abuse, neglect, and crises)

  • Talian HEAL: Call 15555 (24/7 Counselling Helpline)

  • Mercy Malaysia Psychosocial Hotline: Call 03-2935 9935

  • Hospital Kuala Lumpur’s Psychiatric Department or your nearest government hospital for emergency intervention.


For ongoing support, seek help from:


Conclusion

Suicide is preventable. It requires a collective effort to foster a society where mental health is prioritised, and seeking help is seen as a sign of strength. MSCP urges all Malaysians to educate themselves, reach out to those who may be struggling, and advocate for accessible mental healthcare for all.


About the Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology (MSCP)

The MSCP is a professional body dedicated to advancing the field of clinical psychology in Malaysia. It aims to promote mental health awareness, support high standards of practice for clinical psychologists, and provide a platform for education and advocacy for the well-being of all Malaysians.



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