Life is one of humanity’s most cherished gifts, yet those facing vulnerabilities often struggle without essential support. Some individuals experience suicidal thoughts for extended periods due to mental health challenges, while for others, it may be an impulsive decision. In Fiji, a tragic case involved a seven-year-old child who took their own life several years ago.
As reported on August 13, 2024, by fijivillage, the Fiji Police Force disclosed that there have been 56 recorded suicide incidents this year, slightly down from 60 during the same period last year. Police officials indicated that the number of attempted suicides reached 44 as of July 22, maintaining the same figure from the previous year. Disturbingly, three students have been among those who died by suicide in 2024.
Authorities are urging individuals dealing with difficult issues to seek help and communicate with someone. The highest rate of suicides and attempted suicides occurred in 2019, with 244 cases, predominantly in the Western Division, which has consistently reported the highest numbers over the past six years.
Last week, during a parliamentary session, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, encouraged open dialogue regarding suicide and its prevention. He referenced World Health Organization statistics indicating that around 800,000 people die by suicide each year, equating to one person every 40 seconds. Dr. Lalabalavu noted that from 2016 to 2021, Fiji recorded a total of 1,276 suicide-related cases, averaging 213 yearly, with about half resulting in fatalities.
As World Suicide Prevention Day approaches on September 10, we reflect on suicide’s impact and highlight individuals who have received counseling from Empower Pacific. These individuals were either referred by healthcare professionals from government hospitals or contacted Empower Pacific’s 24/7 counseling helpline at 5626.
The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2024 to 2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” with an emphasis on “Start the Conversation.” This initiative aims to reduce stigma and promote open discussions surrounding suicide prevention. The WHO emphasizes the need to transform how society views this complex issue, advocating for openness, understanding, and support.
Globally, suicide poses a significant public health challenge, resulting in over 700,000 deaths annually, and the impact reverberates through communities worldwide. The WHO emphasizes the connection between suicide, mental health conditions, and impulsive decisions made in crisis moments. Various risk factors contribute to suicide, including feelings of loss, loneliness, discrimination, financial issues, and crises.
Between January 1 and July 31 of this year, Empower Pacific provided counseling and social support to 78 individuals who attempted suicide, including 16 cases of deliberate self-harm. The NGO’s counselors are active in multiple locations across Fiji, and have built a long-term partnership with the Ministry of Health & Medical Services for these initiatives.
In addition to individual counseling, Empower Pacific conducts community awareness programs focused on suicide prevention and mental health. A notable session recently took place in partnership with the Ministry of Youth & Sports at Naviyago village, coinciding with a troubling trend of suicides in that area.
Laite Kuruilase, the wife of the village headman, shared her own heartache after losing her biological son to suicide last December. She highlighted the workshop’s importance in addressing the causes of suicide and ways to prevent such tragedies. Kuruilase expressed her hope that sharing the knowledge gained from the awareness sessions will help others in her community.
It is crucial for individuals facing mental health challenges or suicidal thoughts to speak out. Help is available through the 24/7 toll-free counseling helpline at 5626, supported by organizations such as the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and the Rotary Club of Suva.
AVINESH GOPAL serves as Empower Pacific’s media and communications officer in Lautoka. The viewpoints expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any publication.