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Xavier School authorities were distressed after a grade 11 student threatened to jump off the school building on Wednesday, November 12.
In a video captured by ANC, the boy was seen sitting on the ledge of the school’s fifth floor. According to the school authorities, it was not the first time the boy did such act.
Right after seeing the boy, the school authorities sought the help of the Philippine National Police (PNP), San Juan City Rescue Team, and the Bureau of Fire Protection.
Based on the police investigation, the boy wanted to jump off the building due to family problems. At some point when the police were trying to convince the boy not to jump off, they gave him a phone to talk to his parents.
Eventually, the boy agreed to get back inside the building after an hour of speaking to the police.
Understanding Suicide
According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide is a major global health problem that happens not just in Western and developed countries but in every part of the world.
The report revealed that about 800,000 people take their lives every year using common methods such as hanging, use of firearms, as well as pesticide poisoning. In urbanised areas in Asia, jumping from buildings is a common suicide method.
Among the youth (15-29), suicide is the second leading cause of death.
WHO stated that alcoholism depression, personality disorders, neurological disorders, physical illnesses, cancer, and HIV infection are the strongest risk factors for suicide.
Getting Help
In the Philippines, there are a number of organisations offering help to people at risk of suicide.
Those with family members who need free and confidential crisis support and intervention may contact Natasha Goulbourn Foundation’s Hopeline (632) 804-4673 and 09175584673, In Touch Community’s Crisis Line: 893-7603 (landline), 0917 800 1123 (Globe), or 0922 893 8944 (Sun), and Light of Jesus Counseling Center (632) 7266728, (632)7259999 and 09228407031.
Meanwhile, those who need intervention programs and services may seek the help of Philippine Mental Health Association (632) 9214958.
