In conjunction with World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, this episode of Because Feelings Matter features Alia Ali, a suicide prevention advocate and founder of Awareness Against Suicide (AWAS). AWAS is the first peer support group set up exclusively by survivors and for survivors of suicide loss in Malaysia. Alia - affectionately known as ‘Kak Ngah’ - shares her journey of coping with suicide loss, the stigma faced by survivors and caregivers, and how she transformed her pain into purpose by setting up AWAS.

Every mental health struggle has a story behind it. ‘Because Feelings Matter’ is a series that brings you the stories of people and their mental health issues. These stories aim to normalise conversations about mental health, and to show that it’s okay to struggle emotionally and psychologically, but more importantly, to reach out for help. This series is produced in collaboration with Thrive Well.

This segment talks about suicide and may be triggering for some listeners. If you need emotional support, you can call MIASA's 24-hour helpline 1800-1800-66 or Befrienders KL 03 7627 2929. If you are a survivor of suicide loss, you can text AWAS at 010-2344808 for support. 

Produced by: Tee Shiao Eek

Presented by: Tee Shiao Eek

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Categories:  wellness,  managing disease

Tags:  suicide,  mental health,  depression,  anxiety,  grief,  counselling,  therapy,  becausefeelingsmatter,