As reported by the SCMP, calls to suicide prevention hotlines and contact with online mental health support services are rising amongst young people affected by heightening levels of distress from multiple directions: Covid-19, school and university closures, uncertainty about the future, rising unemployment and more.
Keep a watch out for young people displaying signs of stress. Watch out too for those who may be under stress but are not showing it, keeping their emotions inside. Show respect, understanding and care for what they may be experiencing. Be prepared to listen carefully if they say anything, support gently and encourage them to talk about their emotions, doing so without judgement.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you are really concerned about a young person’s well-being.
You can take the Zero Suicide Alliance online suicide prevention course to learn how you could save a life through the Weez Project Suicide Prevention page https://weezproject.com/suicide-prevention/