Dr. Balram Pundit, the senior medical superintendent at St Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva, has stated that mental health and well-being are not receiving the necessary level of investment in society. His remarks came during a panel discussion held by the Ministry of Health at the St. Pius X Parish Raiwaqa Catholic Church to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.
The panel focused on the stigma surrounding suicide and ways to prevent it. Dr. Pundit emphasized that this stigma requires urgent attention, pointing out that the lack of investment in mental health facilities and support for individuals in distress contributes to the issue.
“It’s not just about financial support; we need to invest in changing behaviors regarding this issue,” Dr. Pundit remarked, advocating for the need for appropriate environments and personnel to tackle this critical problem.
He stressed the importance of directing enough resources to aid young people facing mental health difficulties and providing them with safe outlets for expression. Recent statistics from the Fiji Police Force report 63 suicide cases from January 1 to August 22, slightly lower than the 66 cases recorded in the same timeframe last year. Furthermore, there have been 44 attempted suicides nationally, a decrease from 47 in the previous year.
Acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci described the data as highly concerning, highlighting that among the reported cases, eight suicides and five attempts involved individuals under the age of 18. The highest number of reported cases was among individuals over 60, with 19 suicides and two attempts.
The statistics show that men are disproportionately affected, with 50 reported cases. ACP Raikaci is calling on community leaders to help change the narrative surrounding mental health. “We need to foster a more supportive and understanding culture and create safe spaces for open conversations,” he stated.
As modern policing faces its own challenges, ACP Raikaci also mentioned the need to address issues like cyberbullying while encouraging greater compassion among Fijians in online interactions. Factors commonly associated with suicide and attempted suicide include marital disputes, family conflicts, relationship issues, stress, and health-related challenges.