In a sad turn of events, a young woman leaped from Block 283 in Choa Chu Kang Avenue 3 in April. Investigators suspect that undiagnosed depression contributed to the woman’s decision to end her life.

Living in Emotional Pain

Liu Zhi Hui was just 27 years old. After graduating from Nanyang Technical University in Singapore, she gained a position at a private company. She worked there for only a year as an engineer. At that point, she resigned from her job, citing reasons of work-related stress.

Her uncle told reporters about Liu’s resignation. “After working for a year she complained that stress was too great— that she was unhappy and had problems at work. So, she resigned to rest at home.”
For another six months, Liu lingered at home without finding a new job. Her family urged her to seek the help of a psychiatrist in Singapore or at least a physician, but Liu kept insisting that she was healthy. She claimed she was fine, and that she didn’t need a doctor’s help.

Then, half a year after her departure from her position as an engineer, Liu committed suicide. On April 13, 2017, around noon, she jumped from Block 283 in Choa Chu Kang Avenue 3 and died instantly. Police labelled the incident an “unnatural death” pending the completion of their investigation.

Watching for Warning Signs

Too often, families are taken by surprise by a loved one’s suicide. Some of them see the danger signs and try to get suffering loved ones to seek help; but others never see the death coming. Even if family members urge someone to get treatment, they cannot force the person to go to a psychiatrist.

Later, the family and friends of the deceased person may feel guilt and regret. “If I knew earlier that she had depression, I would have paid more attention to her,” said Liu’s uncle. “Maybe this wouldn’t have happened.”

Look for changes in a loved one’s behaviour. Has she withdrawn from everyone? Has he stopped participating in hobbies or activities he used to enjoy? Does she talk about her sadness and hopelessness? Does he say that he has lost hope and purpose? Have sleep patterns changed, or have harmful addictive behaviours emerged? All of these symptoms could indicate a deeper problem that needs professional help.

Persuading a Loved One to Get Help

If you know someone who seems to be severely depressed, encourage that individual to seek help right away. Someone who refuses to get treatment may be convinced if multiple family members express their love, concern, and support. Contact Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic and we’ll work with you to ensure that your loved one feels safe in a comfortable, non-judgmental environment when he or she arrives for the first appointment.

Taking Immediate Action in Urgent Cases

Remember, if you suspect that the person is going to commit suicide or harm someone else, it is time to take immediate action and call the emergency number. Once the right authorities are notified, your friend or family member may realise how serious the situation has become and agree to accept help. Ensure that your loved one has effective therapy and follow-up counselling sessions with a trained psychiatrist or psychologist from Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic.


News Feed from Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic

Source: The Independent, 16 April 2017