Mental health

Thirty hours. It took this long to bring down a person who climbed a 60-foot-high electrical pole in Marikina. The unidentified person climbed the pole last Tuesday afternoon. The power company was quick to shut down power. Can you imagine if the lines were live when he straddled two lines to avoid being reached by rescuers? The voltage running through those lines could kill a man in an instant. If he was electrocuted and fell, he could have hit someone. He spent the night on top of those wires. Apparently, the reason he climbed the pole was because he was evicted from the land he was illegally occupying. No wonder traffic was horrendous around the Katipunan-Marikina-C5 area. People just cannot resist rubber-necking when an incident is unfolding.

Last Saturday, a security guard climbed over the railings of the Meralco Avenue flyover. He then backflips onto the road below. He landed on top of a motorcycle rider. It was a miracle he survived the fall. The motorcycle rider, who was injured, most likely broke his fall. He would have probably died upon impact on the road if the rider had not been there. Authorities are unclear as to why he jumped. He was eventually taken to the National Center for Mental Health in Mandaluyong City to be examined by doctors. We can assume he was not in the right frame of mind when he jumped, even backflipping at that.

Mental health is just as important as a healthy body. Mental health problems are often not diagnosed until it is too late. Two female students were found after they allegedly hanged themselves in a school in Taguig last November 10. One is 13 years old while the other is 15. According to the autopsy report, the Taguig and Southern Police District found no foul play, but the investigation is still ongoing. Everyone who knew the two students was being talked to to find out if there was a reason for the tragedy. Right now, this is being seen as a double suicide. Sad and tragic.

People need the support of family and close friends. They are the first to notice if someone’s behavior and actions are off. It is important to be able to talk if that is what is happening. Not noticing could have dire consequences. The “cry for help” may not be heard. Neglected, one loses hope which leads to tragedy. Don't let this happen. Respond promptly to early signs of depression. There are centers, helplines, and counselors who can help.