A video of a suicide has been making its rounds on Facebook.
Such videos should not be shared on social media.
Research has shown a sharp rise in "copycat" suicides when such incidents are reported in detail.
Vulnerable people can be triggered into acting and be influenced by the gratuitous details of such suicide videos.
Though social media is an excellent platform for people who want to spread awareness about suicide prevention, sharing a video showing someone committing suicide is not the way to do it.
It is not only insensitive, but also disrespectful to the dead person and his family and friends.
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HELPLINES
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Samaritans Of Singapore: 1800-221-4444
Singapore Association For Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
Institute Of Mental Health's Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222
Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 1800-353-5800
Silver Ribbon: 6386-1928
Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
As we talk about suicide, we must be aware that we are surrounded by people for whom these images are profoundly painful.
Suicide has been a taboo subject for too long. We need to talk about it, but we need to do so in a way that is respectful and avoids instigating vulnerable people who are suicidal to act.
Let us keep suicide pictures and videos off social media, and make the conversation more about how we can reach out to the vulnerable people to let them know we care.
Christine Wong (Ms)
Executive Director
Samaritans of Singapore
