Private Project

Youth News@PTS: I've Attempted Suicide, but I Want to Live

"Youth News@PTS" decided to challenge the social taboo and film the story of "Ting-ting," who suffered from mental illness in high school and was plagued by suicidal thoughts throughout her journey. However, during the production process, "Ting-ting" still chose to leave this world... The production team went through intense ethical struggles and discussions, and finally decided to narrate the process of our encounter with Ting-ting from the perspective of the interviewer. Because Ting-ting's efforts to fight against suicidal thoughts, along with her companions, deeply moved us, and we believed that Ting-ting's story should be told in its entirety. Only in this way can we move beyond sadness and gain strength.

  • Yen-Ju Lai
    Director
  • Yen-Ju Lai
    Producer
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Runtime:
    11 minutes 55 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 23, 2022
  • Country of Origin:
    Taiwan
  • Country of Filming:
    Taiwan
  • Language:
    Mandarin Chinese
  • Shooting Format:
    Full HD TV
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • 2023 New York Festivals - TV & Film Awards
    New York
    United States
    April 18, 2023
    International Premiere
    Gold Award in ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAM: EDUCATIONAL/INSTRUCTIONAL
Distribution Information
  • Taiwan Public Television Service Foundation
    Distributor
    Country: Taiwan
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Yen-Ju Lai

Lai Yen-Ju has been serving in Taiwan Public Television Service Foundation for many years, and has been involved in the production of various types of programs including children's, science, literature, and drama.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

The suicide rate among Taiwanese teenagers has been increasing continuously for the past 20 years. When faced with the issue of suicide, we often feel afraid to approach it and choose to avoid discussing it. However, open and healthy discussions can actually help relieve emotions and assist teenagers in clarifying their confused thoughts. In the face of the ethical challenge of the interviewee's departure, we uphold the aforementioned belief and honestly present the feelings of the production team in the video.
Through creating this film, we hope to encourage everyone to try to care for and understand those who self-harm or have suicidal thoughts. We aim to provide an opportunity for further understanding of how to respond to individuals struggling with emotional distress and offer more emotional support. Let us come together to foster empathy and compassion, and work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.