In light of the recent suicide by Ramon Torres National High School (RTNHS) Grade 8 student Eric Hain Demafeliz, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) for Negros Occidental yesterday sent a release detailing tips on suicide prevention, which were recently issued by the World Health Organization (WHO).

One of the primary strategies is ensuring one who may have suicidal thoughts to inform somebody close to them, preferably a member of their immediate family. Based on the release, “Immediate family members should be informed about the intention of suicide and collaborate for their safety.”

They also note, those with suicidal tendencies should not be left alone.

WHO also stresses, when approaching somebody regarding possible suicide, it is important they are aware, when sharing their feelings, they will not be judged.

Demafeliz was accused of stealing a tablet from his school, wherein he was brought to the police after, as Task Force Kasanag (TFK) national commander John Chiong alleges, the student was coerced into admitting to the crime.

After reportedly being subjected to harassment from teachers and students, the student killed himself.

Back in September, the Negros Association of Government Information Officers and Liaisons (NAGIOL) held a forum on reducing stress with psychologist, Dr. Charibel Escandelor.

According to NAGIOL President Olive Seruelo, the discussion on stress was part of suicide prevention month, which is observed throughout September./PLL, WDJ