KUCHING: Parents in Sarawak should be aware of the current social and psychological issues affecting our youth which require our urgent attention.
“Many of our youth are being confronted with serious social and psychological problems which eventually lead to depression,” said Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak Baru (PBDSB) Youth chief Rapelson Richard Hamit.
Therefore, he said early warning signs of depression and other mental health problems should be detected.
“Unfortunately, signs of depression are often difficult to detect as they vary from one individual to another. Besides, many of them tend to be secretive.”
Raphaelson made this comment following the death of a youth who committed suicide last Saturday after sharing his family problems with his friend. The youth had attempted suicide before.
Recently, a 16-year-old student here killed herself by jumping down from the third floor of a shop lot here after conducting an online poll to decide if she should kill herself or not.
As many as 69 per cent of the teenager’s Instagram friends had supported the decision for her to kill herself via a voting poll.
“Regardless of its magnitude, if we remain to be complacent and fail to address the significance of depression, these children may eventually stray beyond our control.
“Parents should take this matter seriously, approach their children, talk and discuss with them whatever issues and activities affecting their daily lives,” he added.
Unfortunately, according to Rapaelson, most parents today are too busy with their careers and often time neglect the most valuable relationship that they should nurture with their children.
“Should we detect someone having the signs and symptoms of depression, it is advised that we bring them to see a counsellor, psychologist or a psychiatrist for help,” he said.
Rapaelson added those in such situation could also contact Befrienders Kuching Sarawak at 082-242800 (6pm-9pm) for help.
The Befrienders Kuching provides counselling services every Monday and Wednesday, from 8.30am to 1pm.
For more details and appointment, call 082-231459.
