Those considering suicide more of younger age

special report If 50 years ago the majority of people who attempted suicide were middle-aged, today the bulk has shifted.

Sixty percent of those who attempt to do so worldwide are now under 40.

While this is yet the case in Malaysia, Dr T Maniam ( right) of UKM said that the proportion of youths with suicidal tendencies is fast rising, with depression seeking ever younger targets.

Chief of the factors behind this, he said, is the "epidemic of loneliness" brought on by a rise in urbanisation, and exacerbated by the lack of quality in relationships.

"Young people are more connected through technology, but virtual relationships are solitary pursuits," said the psychiatrist and medical researcher.

Maniam, who has 25 years experience in the study of suicide, added that families are also growing more nuclear, which means there is less support for young parents and a lack of quality relationships for urban dwellers.

"Being part of a crowd does not mean that one is not lonely," he said.

Substance abuse is also a factor, said Maniam, because it interferes with brain functions and heightens the risk of mental illness and depression.

Indeed a 2001 study conducted on suicidal behaviour among teenagers in Malaysia found that those who drink alcohol are more likely to contemplate or attempt suicide.

Emotions the assassins

The study found that out of the 4,454 teenagers who took part in the study, seven percent had seriously considered suicide, while 10.4 percent went a step further and attempted suicide at least once in the 12 months preceding the study.

Those in their teens and twenties, according to chairperson of Befrienders Kuala Lumpur, Gangadara Vadivel, make the most calls to their hotline.

"Young people are living under stressful conditions and they do not have the capacity to deal with their emotions and problems," he said.

This increased stress, he said, is traced to the fact that teenagers and young adults are now more eager to be independent but are actually not ready take on life's challenges.

Further, he said, one in every five child suffers from some sort of mental disorder which will render them unable to cope with emotions, and that there is a strong correlation between mental disorders and suicide.

UPM Islamic Studies lecturer, Ustaz Shauqi Othman added that some young people are leading "suicidal (lives)" as they are spiritually barren and are easily influenced by their environment.

"For example the young 'Mat Rempits' are living a suicidal life and although they are Muslims, studies have been shown that they do not pray, therefore, they do not have any depth and spirituality," he said.

Father Lawrence Andrew of Catholic publication, The Herald believes that teenagers are attempting suicide because they lack love and appreciation from their families and loved ones.

Puberty time of stress

According to Gangadara, the best way to prevent suicide is to educate teenagers and children on accepting their emotions.

He said that depression often arises when teenagers are confused and do not know how to deal with their emotions, especially upon reaching puberty.

"They are learning about their bodies and their sexuality, and these changes could lead to a lot of stress," he added.

Therefore, he said, we need to empower our children to deal with these complexities and equip them with the capacity to address their emotional needs.

"We are conducting workshops and seminars in schools and colleges to let these young people know that they are not alone. And that their feelings, be it negative or positive, are natural and have to be accepted," he said.

He added that it is the community's collective responsibility to ensure that our young people grow up in a safe and healthy environment.

Religion the answer

According to Ustaz Shauqi, religion might be the answer to people who have lost hope in life.

In Islam, he said that if ever you feel depressed and have given up hope, you should pray to God and also seek the help of someone who is more knowledgeable for advice.

Also, he reasoned that youth today are not spiritually inclined and their lives are centred on the pursuit of materialism.

Therefore, they feel like it is the end of the world when they lose money or their spouse.

Living in an increasingly competitive world is also stressful, he said, and this can be countered by finding inner peace through reading and appreciating the Quran.

Father Lawrence ( left ) also encourages young people to use religion as an outlet by joining religious youth groups.

"For example, some of our youth leaders are very influential and managed to gain the trust and respect of young people, therefore, they are more open to us," he said.

In fact, he shared, some of the youth in his church once had suicidal tendencies, and that he had helped prevent some of them from taking their own lives.

Similarly, there should be an understanding of the value of human life, said Goh Keat Peng of Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism & Taoism.

"We often speak of suicide as a lack of understanding or appreciation on the part of those with suicidal tendencies for the value of life.

"But in our busyness and pursuits, we who are close to them betray our lack of understanding or appreciation for them as persons of value," he said.

Related articles:

Should suicidal people be penalised

Religious perspectives on suicide

Under-reporting of suicide a major problem