Voices Of Youth

Don't overlook mental illness in others

I agree with social media editor Daryl Chin that material success is no bulwark against mental illness (Fortune and fame are no defence against mental illness; June 10).

The mindset of some is that having a great career and life is all that matters, eliminating many common problems such as suicide and depression.

This makes mental illness in some, especially those who are seemingly successful in life, very easily overlooked.

Not long ago, celebrities Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain took their own lives.

Both of them were known to be wonderful people, led amazing lives and had almost everything anyone could want.

But that did not protect them from mental illness and depression.

Let us keep a lookout for anyone suffering from stress or trauma. We never know when they might need a friend to tell them that they are worth it.

Leanne Chia, 13, Secondary 2 student

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on July 04, 2018, with the headline Don't overlook mental illness in others. Subscribe