(CN) Suicide Decriminalisation in Singapore: A First Step Towards Compassion and Care

by Andrea McKenna Brankin

"You are Not Alone, Really" - Coping with the Ups and Downs of Expat Life

Content Note:

This article discusses suicide and self-harm in the context of legal and social change in Singapore. The discussion is intended to inform and reduce stigma, but the subject may be sensitive for some readers. Please read with care and prioritise your wellbeing.

For many years, conversations about suicide were often wrapped in silence, fear, and misunderstanding. In Singapore, this began to change in a significant way on 1 January 2020, when suicide was officially decriminalised under the Penal Code. This shift marked an important step forward—not just legally, but socially and emotionally—for how we understand mental health and support those who are struggling.

Before 2020, attempting suicide was an offence under Section 309 of the Penal Code. While prosecutions were rare, the law carried a powerful symbolic message: that people in deep emotional distress could be treated as criminals rather than individuals in need of help. Mental health professionals, advocacy groups, and community organisations long expressed concern that criminalisation discouraged people from seeking support, for fear of shame or legal consequences.

Recognising this, Singapore passed the Criminal Law Reform Bill in 2019, which repealed Section 309. When the change came into effect in 2020, it reflected a growing national understanding that suicide is not a crime—it is often the result of overwhelming pain, mental illness, or prolonged stress. Decriminalisation aligned the law with a more compassionate, health-centred approach.

Importantly, decriminalisation does not mean that suicide is taken lightly. Instead, it means that individuals who attempt suicide are more likely to be directed toward medical care, counselling, and social support, rather than punishment. It sends a clear message: people who are struggling deserve help, not judgment.

This legal change also supports broader efforts in Singapore to destigmatise mental health. Campaigns such as Mental Health Matters and increased public education have encouraged more open conversations at workplaces, schools, and within families. While stigma has not disappeared overnight, attitudes are slowly shifting. More people are learning that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you’re reading this and going through a difficult time, it’s important to know this: you are not alone, and support systems do exist here in Singapore. Confidential and compassionate help is available. Organisations like SOS (Samaritans of Singapore) provide 24-hour emotional support for those in crisis. Public hospitals, polyclinics, and community mental health services also offer access to trained professionals who can help you navigate what you’re feeling.

Reaching out can feel hard—especially if you’ve been taught to “just cope” or worry about burdening others. But mental health struggles are part of the human experience, and help is meant to be used. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, a family member, a counsellor, or a helpline volunteer, taking that first step can make a difference.

Decriminalising suicide was not the end of the journey, but it was an important beginning. It represents a move toward empathy, understanding, and shared responsibility. As a society, continuing to talk openly, support one another, and treat mental health with the same seriousness as physical health helps create a safer space for everyone.

Mental health matters—every day, for every person. And help is always closer than you might think.

---

Support: If this article brings up difficult feelings, confidential support is available in Singapore via SOS Singapore at 1767 (24 hours) or 24-hour CareText: 9151 1767 (via WhatsApp). Readers outside Singapore can find local helplines through Befrienders Worldwide. If you need urgent help, please reach out to local emergency services.

---

​A mental health advocate and author of the book Bipolar Phoenix, Andrea runs the AWA Listen Ladies Group, providing confidential support for members at regular meetings. You can reach her at listenladies@awasingapore.org