In Fiji, a significant mental health crisis is emerging, underscored by alarming statistics on suicide. Over the past two months, 14 lives have been lost to suicide, with the overwhelming majority being men. Lifeline Fiji’s Chief Executive, Jeremaia Merekula, has emphasized that suicide remains a top cause of death in the nation, with disturbing rates indicating that every 36 hours, a Fijian loses their life this way. Among the cases, the youngest victim was as young as seven years old.
The data reveals that in 2024, Fiji recorded 64 cases of attempted suicide and 99 deaths by suicide, marking a total of 163 cases for the year. The helpline operated by Lifeline Fiji receives an average of 160 calls monthly, which can spike to nearly 500 during demanding periods, with approximately 40% of these calls directly concerning suicide.
This issue is not isolated to recent trends, as the statistics have shown fluctuations over the years, including a peak of 113 attempted suicides in 2021. Notably, the Western Division has consistently reported the highest rates of suicide and attempts over the past six years, demonstrating the need for increased mental health support and awareness in these areas.
As the global community observes World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, there is an urgent call for open discussions about mental health and suicide prevention. The theme for 2024-2026, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” seeks to foster understanding and reduce stigma surrounding the topic, which is critical in encouraging vulnerable individuals to seek help.
In light of these statistics, experts and community leaders are urging individuals to reach out for support. Organizations like Empower Pacific provide vital counseling services, taking steps to address these alarming trends through community outreach and education.
Community awareness programs, like those recently conducted in Naviyago village, focus on understanding the factors that contribute to suicide and promoting preventive measures. Laite Kuruilase, a villager who tragically lost her son to suicide, shared her story to encourage open conversations about mental health challenges and the importance of seeking help rather than suffering in silence.
This highlights a critical moment for Fiji—not only to address immediate mental health concerns but to create an enduring support system that fosters dialogue and understanding, ultimately aiming to reduce the tragic loss of life associated with suicide. For anyone facing mental health challenges or suicidal thoughts, there are resources available, including a 24/7 toll-free helpline at 5626, offering vital support from trained counselors.
The ongoing efforts from community organizations and government leaders provide hope that with proper intervention and a shift in societal attitudes, more lives can be saved, creating a future where mental health is prioritized and openly discussed.
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