Between 2016 and 2021, the Fiji Police Force recorded a total of 1,276 suicides and attempted suicides. This amounts to an average of 212 cases each year, with nearly half resulting in fatalities. Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu addressed this issue in Parliament on Friday, responding to inquiries about the ministry’s suicide prevention efforts.
Dr. Lalabalavu noted that 2019 saw the highest number of reported cases, totaling 244, with the Western Division consistently recording the most incidents over the past six years. He emphasized the need to change the narrative around suicide, advocating for a shift from a culture of silence and stigma to one characterized by openness, understanding, and support.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 800,000 individuals die by suicide globally each year. Dr. Lalabalavu called for action, encouraging everyone to engage in discussions about suicide and its prevention. He stressed that every conversation, regardless of its size, plays a part in fostering a supportive and understanding community.
“By initiating these vital discussions, we can dismantle barriers, enhance awareness, and cultivate a more supportive culture,” he stated. He urged people to start conversations in various settings, including churches, mosques, sports fields, and social gatherings.