Samaritans of Singapore (SOS): Plaster the Silence

As part of World Suicide Prevention Week, TBWASingapore has once again partnered with Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) to continue the Plaster the Silence campaign, which encourages everyone to show their support by wearing a black SOS plaster on their inner wrists. The plaster acts as a conversation starter, emphasising that the first step to suicide prevention is to get people talking about their feelings and what they're going through. In 2015, the number of suicides was reported at 409 (the lowest since 2012). However, despite the overall drop in suicide rate, teen suicides are at a 15-year high with more than double the number of cases in 2014. Troubled teens cite mental health issues, academic pressure, and relationship problems at home and in school as sources of stress. That's why even as this year's campaign continues to reach out to everyone from all walks of life, there is a special emphasis on appealing to the youth. Supporters are able to download a virtual plaster, which they can add to their social media profile pictures, effectively spreading the word through the platform most familiar to young adults. On 10 September 2016, black SOS plasters will be given out at several locations throughout Singapore, particularly in areas frequented by teens. Supporters will be able to collect the plasters, wear them on their inner wrists and post a photo with a heartfelt caption using the hashtag #HOWRU.