Life is one of humanity’s most valuable gifts, yet this perspective can be obscured for vulnerable individuals facing challenges without proper support. Many may experience suicidal thoughts due to various mental health issues, while for others, it can be an impulsive decision.
In Fiji, the youngest recorded victim was a seven-year-old who took their life a few years ago. On August 13, 2024, fijivillage reported that statistics from the Fiji Police Force indicated there have been 56 suicide cases this year, a slight decrease from 60 cases during the same period last year. The police also noted that as of July 22, there were 44 attempted suicides, matching the total from the previous year. Tragically, three students have been among those who lost their lives to suicide this year.
In response, police officials have urged individuals experiencing difficulties to seek help and talk to someone. The highest rates of suicide and attempted suicide in Fiji were recorded in 2019, with a total of 244 cases, consistently higher in the Western Division over the past six years.
Last week in Parliament, Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu emphasized the need to begin conversations around suicide and its prevention. According to him, the World Health Organization reports approximately 800,000 people die by suicide annually, equivalent to one every 40 seconds. Between 2016 and 2021, Fiji’s police statistics revealed a total of 1,276 suicide and attempted suicide cases, averaging 213 incidents a year, with around half resulting in death.
As World Suicide Prevention Day approaches on September 10, attention turns to the issue of suicide and the support provided by Empower Pacific, an NGO. These individuals are often referred to the organization by doctors from government hospitals or contact the NGO’s 24/7 toll-free helpline, 5626.
The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2024-2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” aimed at raising awareness about reducing stigma and promoting open conversations to mitigate suicide risks. The WHO stated that discussing suicide involves transforming the way society perceives this complex issue, shifting from silence to openness and understanding.
Suicide remains a significant public health concern, with over 700,000 global deaths each year, affecting communities and individuals profoundly. While there is a well-established link between suicide and mental health conditions such as depression and alcohol use disorders, impulsive actions often drive many suicides during crisis moments.
Other identified risk factors include experiences of loss, loneliness, discrimination, relationship breakdowns, financial issues, chronic pain, violence, and conflict. From January 1 to July 31 this year, Empower Pacific provided counseling and social support services to 78 individuals who attempted suicide, with 16 cases linked to deliberate self-harm.
Counselors from Empower Pacific, located in several cities, have offered counseling support as part of a long-standing partnership with the Ministry of Health. Additionally, awareness programs on suicide prevention and mental health have also been conducted, including a recent session in partnership with the Ministry of Youth & Sports at Naviyago village, addressing a historical trend of suicide in the area marked by the recent death of the village headman’s son.
Laite Kuruilase, the headman’s wife, shared her heart-wrenching experience of losing her son to suicide. The awareness workshop provided valuable insights into the reasons behind suicides and preventive measures. She noted that past incidents in the village followed similar patterns, but recently, some individuals were saved from attempted suicides. Kuruilase expressed the importance of open discussions about mental health challenges, urging others to seek help rather than suffer in silence.
If anyone is dealing with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, they are encouraged to reach out to the 24/7 toll-free helpline at 5626 for assistance from qualified counselors. This helpline is supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade, the Rotary Club of Suva, and the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation, through radio promotions.