Hollywood star Henry Golding has shared his concerns about the increase in suicides and those who tried it in his home country of Malaysia, due to factors caused by the lockdown following the ongoing battle with the COVID-19 outbreak.
The British-Malaysian actor said it was important to talk about the issue and had challenged fellow Malaysians to contact others in their lives, not just to make small talk but also to ask about their well-being.
“It can be so simple. Think of three friends who may need that text or that small call for three to four minutes, just to check in on them. Really ask them how they are doing and coping with everything,” said Henry in a video uploaded on his Instagram.
Suicide can be caused by a variety of things especially when faced with hardships and an uncertain future due to job loss, lack of social interaction, and being cooped up in the middle of crowded cities like Kuala Lumpur.
“Those numbers (of suicide) are sadly climbing. We can do something about it. Help support the people around us. Having that small outreach can prevent something disastrous from happening.
“I know you’re all locked up and it would be nice to talk to people. And hearing somebody say they’re thinking of you can make such a drastic change,” he added.
Those who need help may reach out to befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for help in different states; or call Befrienders hotline (03-7627 2929); Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999) and Malaysian Mental Health Association (03-77825499).
Sources: Henry Golding