According to the latest provisional data, suicides in 2024 have seen a reduction of 2.5% compared to the previous year, 2023. However, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has revised the total for suicide deaths in 2023 to 434, marking a dramatic 34.8% increase from an earlier figure of 322. The media outlet CNA has reached out to the ICA for clarification regarding this uptick in the reported numbers.
On Saturday, the Singapore SOS (Samaritans of Singapore) announced that their "Be A Samaritan" program has successfully trained over 6,000 people to identify and respond to signs of emotional distress. In addition, a junior program has been launched, aimed at teenagers aged 13 to 16, which utilizes age-appropriate scenarios to promote early help-seeking behavior among youth.
In 2024, SOS has provided in-person counselling and support groups to 1,112 individuals dealing with suicidal thoughts or mourning the loss of loved ones to suicide. Dr. Janil Puthucheary, who serves as the patron of SOS and is also a Senior Minister of State, emphasized the organization’s commitment to reducing suicide rates, noting that each statistic represents a person and a family facing hardship. Dr. Puthucheary expressed gratitude for the volunteers and partners involved and encouraged more individuals to join the cause to support families in crisis.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
The focus should be on why these numbers are increasing, not just on the reduced rate in a single year.
Comandante
So proud of SOS for their efforts! Raising awareness and providing support is crucial.
Muchacha
Reducing suicides by a small percentage is not enough—we need comprehensive mental health reform!
ZmeeLove
The collaboration between volunteers and professionals is essential—great work to everyone involved!
Muchacho
What about the support for families of suicides? This is a larger issue than just individual counseling.