20YO Commits Suicide From 50-Storey Pinnacle@Duxton Sky Bridge

Depression is an awful thing.

Many people think it’s simply a state of mind you can easily snap out of. Others think you’re just being weak. 

Just be positive! You’re depressed because of your pessimistic outlook.

C’mon, everyone feels sad from time to time. There’s no need to make a big deal out of it. 

These people don’t understand that its a disease that can eat away at you, devouring all the things in life that make you happy, leaving you miserable, listless, and alone.

And, sometimes, it can even drive you over the edge.

20YO Commits Suicide From 50-Storey Pinnacle@Duxton Sky Bridge

On 14 Oct, a 20-year-old woman jumped from the 50th storey sky bridge at The Pinnacle@Duxton after sitting on the ledge for an hour.

Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead immediately.

According to Mothership, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) explained that they had responded to a call about a person sitting on a ledge at Cantonment Road at about 7.30 pm.

SCDF said they deployed two safety life air packs as a precautionary measure.

Inflatable air packs are usually deployed to cushion someone’s fall. They are commonly used in suicide rescue attempts.

Unfortunately, the woman jumped and fell beyond the air packs. The impact killed her and she was pronounced dead by the paramedic at the scene.

The police have classified the case as unnatural death and investigations are ongoing.

Recognizing the signs

This devastating incident reminds us that depression and suicidal feelings can plague anyone, including our loved ones. So, it’s important to recognize the symptoms before its too late. Here are some suicidal warning signs:

  • Excessive sadness or moodiness – This includes mood swings, long-lasting sadness, and unexpected rage
  • Feeling of hopelessness – Feeling a deep sense of hopelessness about the future, with little expectation that circumstances can improve
  • Insomnia or other sleep disorders
  • Sudden calmness – Sudden calmness after a period of depression can be a sign that the person has made a decision to end his or her life
  • Isolation – Choosing to be alone and avoiding friends or social activities also are possible symptoms of depression, a leading cause of suicide
  • Changes in personality and/or appearance – The person might suddenly become less concerned about his or her personal appearance. They might also exhibit a noticeable change in attitude.
  • Dangerous or self-harmful behavior – This includes reckless driving, engaging in unsafe sex, and increased use of drugs and/or alcohol
  • Recent trauma or life crisis – A major life crises might trigger a suicide attempt such as the death of a loved one, a break-up or divorce, a loss of a job, or financial problems
  • Threatening suicide – Often,  50% to 75% of those considering suicide will give someone — a friend or relative — a warning sign. Not everyone will, however, so it’s important to look out for other signs.

If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, or any mental distress, please seek help. Here are some hotlines you can call:

Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
Institute of Mental Health’s Mobile Crisis Service: 6389-2222
Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 1800-353-5800