September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. I was thinking about what it might feel like to lose a loved one to suicide. I don’t have any personal experience with this, so it wouldn’t be right to say I understand, but my heart breaks for anyone who is in so much pain that they want to end their life, and for their loved ones who are left with a gaping void in their lives.
I wrote this poem not to spread despair, but awareness.
It’s a reminder to myself of sorts, to check in often with the people I care about, to be kind to strangers; to spread compassion instead of judgment. To keep wishing and working to make the world a more accepting and loving place.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, here are some people who can help:
- Samaritans of Singapore (SOS): 1800 221 4444 (available 24 hours daily) https://www.sos.org.sg/
- Emergency Helpline (IMH): 6389 2222 (Available 24 hours daily) https://www.imh.com.sg/
- Other helplines: https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/support-groups-and-others/20/call-on-these-when-you-need-help
