Efforts to combat rising suicide rates among older adults in Fiji have been bolstered by a recent donation from BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP). The bank contributed $10,000 to Lifeline Fiji, aimed at enhancing the organization’s mental health advocacy and community well-being initiatives. The donation also included Christmas hampers and necessary office supplies for Lifeline Fiji’s counseling agents.

At the handover ceremony, BSP’s Chief Operating Officer, George Barratt, expressed admiration for Lifeline Fiji’s counselors, highlighting their commitment to crisis intervention, which he described as lifesaving. He noted that their work, coupled with approaches that leverage local languages and partnerships with community organizations, is making a significant impact.

Statistics from Lifeline Fiji indicate an alarming trend in suicides among individuals aged 60 and older. Data from January to October 2024 recorded 136 cases of suicide and attempted suicide, slightly down from 156 in 2023, yet the prevalence among seniors is notable. Lifeline Fiji’s Director, Jeremaia Merekula, pointed out that factors such as isolation, health decline, loneliness, and financial struggles significantly contribute to the mental health challenges faced by older adults.

Community collaboration and support are critical, Merekula emphasized, stating that ensuring older adults receive necessary connections and assistance is essential in mitigating these issues. The bank’s long-standing partnership with Lifeline Fiji, established in 2017, has played a crucial role in delivering vital crisis intervention services in the region.

In light of the global awareness initiative marked by World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, the need for open discussions about mental health and suicide prevention is increasingly recognized. Lifeline Fiji encourages anyone facing mental health challenges to reach out for support. The service can be accessed by calling their counseling hotline at 1543.

It is evident that recognizing and addressing mental health, particularly in vulnerable groups like older adults, requires a community-driven approach. BSP’s generous support for Lifeline Fiji is a step toward fostering awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, which can ultimately save lives.

This positive partnership reflects a unified commitment to creating a supportive environment where every individual feels valued and heard.