What would you do if someone told you they were depressed?
You’d probably ask them if they’d like to talk, or advise them to talk to a mental health expert.
As anyone who has experienced depression will know, it’s not something that should be taken lightly; if someone with depression is reaching out, it’s because they recognise that they need help and want it.
Unfortunately, not everyone reacts in the right way. In fact, you can sometimes end up pushing those who are depressed over the edge.
Chinese Influencer Dies After Netizens Urges Her to Drink Pesticides to ‘Prove’ Her Depression
A famous Chinese influencer with hundreds of thousands of fans died after she was goaded into drinking pesticide to “prove” that she was suffering from depression.
The woman’s family is reportedly preparing to launch a lawsuit against the netizens who provoked her into carrying out the fatal act.
In a live internet broadcast on 15 Oct, Luo Xiao Mao Maozi revealed that she was suffering from depression.
She said that while she looks happy on social media, netizens don’t know how she truly feels.
Instead of comforting her or advising her to seek help, some netizens reportedly demanded that she “prove” that she has depression by drinking pesticides.
The implication here is that Luo was lying about her depression, presumably for attention. But this was clearly not the case (and never is).
After hearing the request, Luo grabbed a bottle of pesticide and consumed it. At the time, around 30,000 netizens were reportedly watching her live broadcast.
Sometime later, Luo suddenly lost consciousness and collapsed while the broadcast was still going on.
Rescue teams responded to a call for assistance and conveyed Luo to a nearby hospital, but it was too late; Luo died while receiving treatment.
Authorities Investigating
At the time of her death, Luo had over 600,000 followers on a social media platform.
After the incident was brought to light, the Chinese Public Security Bureau reportedly launched an investigation.
Those who goaded the influencer into drinking the pesticide may also face legal action from the woman’s bereaved family.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, you can call the following helplines:
Samaritans of Singapore: 1800 221-4444 (24 hours)
Institute of Mental Health: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800 283-7019 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 6pm)
National Care Hotline: 1800-202-6868 (8am-12am)
Brahm Centre Assistline: 6655-0000 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 6pm)
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Featured Image: min.news