Men facing domestic violence, relationship challenges, and other issues that impact their physical and mental health are encouraged to seek help from counselors. Mohenesh Singh, the founder and counselor at Healing Hands Foundation Fiji, emphasizes the availability of support for men who are dealing with suicidal thoughts.
“It is crucial for men to break the silence and report to the police if they feel their rights are being violated,” Mr. Singh stated. He highlighted that men experiencing fear, isolation, confusion, shame, or anxiety can find assistance through organizations like his.
Mr. Singh dedicates time to educating young men on various ways to resolve their problems. He believes that sharing their experiences is essential to prevent dwelling on suicidal thoughts. He noted that in the Northern Division, five to six men reach out to him daily to discuss their issues.
Based on his observations, Mr. Singh identified several primary factors contributing to men’s suicide, including domestic violence from partners, relationship struggles, and financial hardships. He also mentioned that men who engage in alcohol and drug use are at a higher risk for suicidal behavior.
He pointed out that societal attitudes in Fiji often discourage men from reporting their abuse experiences. “In Fiji, the expectation to appear as a ‘strong man’ can make it challenging for men to seek counseling or assistance,” he explained.
Mr. Singh acknowledged that while it may be difficult to confront these fears, it is vital to recognize that abuse will likely persist until action is taken to escape it. The police’s suicide report for national statistics from January to October 2023 showed that men had the highest incidence of suicide and attempted suicide, with 90 cases reported for males compared to 40 for females.