A female commuter was seen climbing over the half-height platform screen doors of the Yio Chu Kang MRT station in an attempt of suicide. The nerve-wracking incident was caught on camera by netizens, prompting questions about her mental health and the importance of addressing suicidal thoughts in teenagers.
Here's what transpired during the MRT suicide attempt.
MRT Suicide Attempt: Female Commuter Climbs Over Platform Screen Doors On MRT Tracks
SMRT released a statement via Facebook to share more about the incident.
In their post, SMRT noted, "On 2 August at about 1.55pm, train services were halted between Ang Mo Kio and Yishun stations in both directions. A female commuter at Yio Chu Kang station climbed over the half-height platform screen door and got onto the track."
Their statement added that commuters on the platform activated the Emergency Stop Plunger, leading to SMRT staff's swift response.
The Young Female Commuter Was Apprehended By The Police
While she was brought to safety, she was apprehended under the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) Act. According to the police, she was also arrested for criminal trespass under Section 447 of the Penal Code.
Further investigations are ongoing.
While this incident has once again put mental health conversation front and centre, it has also raised an alarm for parents.
What Experts Are Saying About Young People's Mental Health Issues
theAsianparent spoke with Dr Geraldine Tan, Director and Principal Psychologist at The Therapy Room Pte Ltd, about this incident and she gave us an insight into the many struggles of young people.
She said that many of the students that are struggling with their mental health informed her that the reason they feel low is because of the following:
- Feeling unsafe at school
- Losing grip of their studies
- Stress from academics getting worse
- WA3 is coming
- There are more and more restrictions in schools
Dr Geraldine also gave suggestions about the ways in which parents, friends and family can help students cope with suicidal thoughts.
"Pace with the children, remind them that grades are not everything, ensure that they have enough sleep, create a safe space to talk to them, encourage them to have activities other than those on their devices, have them write about their feelings, and try taking part in creating more art to express their emotions," she advised.
Suicidal Thoughts In Any Child & Teenager: How To Seek Help
So let us together prevent intrusive suicidal thoughts in every child and teenager by letting them know that they are not alone and that we acknowledge their struggles.
If you or anybody you know is experiencing such thoughts, please do not hesitate to seek help and emotional support. Here are Suicide Prevention and Crisis helplines to prevent such incidents:
- Samaritans of Singapore (SOS): 1800 221 4444
- SAF Hotline (For SAF Personnel): 1800 278 0022
- Singapore Association of Mental Health: 1800 283 7019
- Emergency Helpline (Institute of Mental Health): 6389 2222 (24 hours)
- Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 1800 353 5800 (10am-10pm)
- Tinkle Friend: 1800 274 4788
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