Prolonged periods of stress, anxiety, family pressure and coping with emotional situations and feelings are among the reasons 102 people attempted suicide in the first eight months of this year.
These figures were released by Lautoka-based counselling service providers Empower Pacific this week in the lead-up to World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.
CEO Patrick Morgam said 39 individuals who had self-harm and suicidal thoughts were also counselled and were among the 141 individuals provided with mental health and psychosocial support by the end of last month.
“Among the reasons for individuals attempting suicide or deliberate self-harm included relationship and family issues, history of ongoing domestic violence and relationship and family issues,” Mr Morgam said.
“In many cases, suicide can be prevented; it is vital that we learn the risk factors and warning signs, which include depression, change in personality, self-harm behaviour, recent life crisis and conversations about wanting to die.
“If a family member or friend talks about suicide, take them seriously; listen without judgment and encourage them to seek professional help.”
Mr Morgam said combating suicide awareness sessions with communities and stakeholders was vital.
He said as an NGO, they released statistics to address suicide and its impact while laying significance to the upcoming observance of the Suicide Prevention Day this month.
“In 2022, 160 people who attempted or were contemplating suicide sought Empower Pacific Counselling support.
“There were 63 people who were counselled by our qualified counsellors for having thoughts of self-harm.
“Therefore, people should not hesitate to call our 24/7 counselling helpline – 5626 or visit one of our offices if they feel suicidal and need someone to talk to.”
