IT’S a new year; we all made promises and plans to make our new year prosperous, but it was very saddening to know that some persons did not have a well-started year. Their joys and happiness were cut short by the despicable acts of their loved ones or friends who committed suicide, or those who tried to take their own lives. 

Persons who did such acts either died the same time or many days after, and it is very saddening to know that these perpetrators were mainly teenagers and young adults.
And the rate of suicide is relatively high, mostly in Region 6. We all know that suicide is not the solution for any problem, no matter what it may be. Whether it is family problems, relationship problems, financial problems, peer pressure, one must not think that suicide is the way out!
I’m writing just to tell you, the teenagers and young adults out there, don’t take matters into your own hands, but talk to someone; let your feelings out and don’t resort to committing suicide and ending your life, putting your loved ones in distress and hurt.
Look at all the good and wonderful times you had in your life; look back at all the times you were happy, and had the courage to move on and live every day towards your goal in life.
We all need to be strong and supportive of each other, so call up a friend, talk to your parents or even your schoolteacher, and let them advise you and guide you so you could be whom you want to be and grow a bright future for yourselves!
I’m appealing to you the public: Let us join together in raising awareness against suicide! Let us help those in need, especially teenagers and young adults. Educate them! Let them know the consequences and help them to build their confidence! Help them to boost their thinking of how life works! We all can do this; all we need is co-operation and teamwork.
I’m also appealing to teenagers and young adults out there: Don’t let suicide be an option; moreso, it should never be an option in your life. Be positive! Think positive and be who you want to be. Don’t let the devil get inside of you and lead you astray!
I am 17 years old, and I worry about my fellow young people and this alarming suicide rate in Guyana, which is why I am writing this letter to help raise awareness, and let people out there know how I feel about this ongoing situation.
I am pleading to you youngsters: stay in school! Be who you want to be and SAY NO TO SUICIDE, AND YES TO LIFE!

S. SOMWAR