Dr. Balram Pundit, the senior medical superintendent at St Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva, has highlighted a significant lack of investment in mental health and well-being within society. This statement was made during a panel discussion organized by the Ministry of Health in observance of World Suicide Prevention Day. The event took place at St. Pius X Parish Raiwaqa Catholic Church and centered on addressing the stigma associated with suicide and exploring preventive measures.
Dr. Pundit emphasized the urgent need to tackle the stigma linked to suicide, noting that insufficient resources dedicated to mental health facilities and support systems for those in distress exacerbate the issue. “It’s not just about financial contributions; we need a broader investment in changing societal attitudes toward the matter,” he stated. He underscored the importance of providing appropriate environments and qualified personnel to address these pressing concerns.
He also stressed that it is vital to allocate adequate resources for youth grappling with mental health challenges, ensuring they have safe avenues for self-expression. The Fiji Police Force reported 63 suicide cases from January 1 to August 22, compared to 66 during the same timeframe the previous year, while there were 44 attempted suicides, a slight decrease from 47 in the prior year.
Acting Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sakeo Raikaci expressed concern over these statistics, describing them as deeply troubling. Among the cases, eight suicides and five attempts involved individuals under 18, while those over 60 accounted for the highest number of cases, with 19 suicides and two attempts reported.
The data also indicate a higher incidence of suicide among males, with 50 reported cases. ACP Raikaci called on community leaders to play a role in changing the narrative surrounding mental health. He urged for the cultivation of a more compassionate and understanding community, highlighting the need to create safe spaces for open discussions. He also noted the importance of addressing modern challenges like cyberbullying, encouraging greater empathy in the digital realm.
Common factors identified in suicide and attempted suicide cases include marital disputes, family issues, relationship struggles, stress, and health problems.