Life is one of humanity’s most valuable gifts, but this truth can often be overlooked by those facing vulnerabilities and challenges without sufficient support. Many individuals struggle with suicidal thoughts, which can stem from ongoing mental health issues or sudden crises. In Fiji, one of the youngest victims of suicide was a seven-year-old child who took their life a few years ago.
As of August 13, 2024, reports from fijivillage indicate that the Fiji Police Force recorded 56 suicide cases this year, a slight decrease from 60 during the same period last year. The police also noted that there have been 44 attempted suicides as of July 22, matching the number from the previous year. Unfortunately, among the lives lost to suicide this year were three students.
Authorities are urging individuals grappling with personal challenges to seek help and talk to someone about their experiences. The highest incidence of suicides and attempts was documented in 2019, with a total of 244 cases, particularly concentrated in the Western Division, which has consistently reported the most cases over the past six years.
During a recent parliamentary session, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, emphasized the need to promote discussions surrounding suicide and its prevention. He highlighted alarming statistics from the World Health Organization, noting that approximately 800,000 individuals die by suicide globally each year, equating to one death every 40 seconds. From 2016 to 2021, Fiji’s police recorded 1,276 cases of suicide and attempted suicide, with an annual average of 213 cases, nearly half resulting in fatalities.
As the world observes World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, there is a focus on the importance of counselling support through organizations like Empower Pacific. Many individuals are referred to this NGO by healthcare professionals or contact their 24/7 toll-free counselling helpline at 5626 for assistance.
The triennial theme for the 2024-2026 World Suicide Prevention Day is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” with a call to action to “Start the Conversation.” This initiative aims to reduce stigma and promote open dialogue about preventing suicide. The WHO underscores the importance of changing perceptions surrounding this complex issue to foster a culture of understanding and support.
Globally, suicide represents a significant public health crisis, with over 700,000 fatalities annually. Each suicide carries profound social, emotional, and economic consequences, affecting individuals and communities alike. Although there is a well-established connection between suicide and mental health issues, many suicides occur impulsively during moments of crisis.
There are numerous risk factors for suicide, including experiences of loss, feelings of loneliness, discrimination, relationship breakdowns, financial stress, chronic pain, violence, abuse, and various humanitarian crises. From January 1 to July 31 this year, Empower Pacific provided counselling and social support to 78 individuals who attempted suicide, with 16 cases involving deliberate self-harm.
These individuals received support from counselors at Empower Pacific’s main office in Lautoka and its branches in Suva, Labasa, Nausori, Nadi, Tavua, and Sigatoka. Under a longstanding partnership with the Ministry of Health & Medical Services, doctors refer certain cases to Empower Pacific for counselling services.
In addition to direct counselling, Empower Pacific’s counselors have conducted community awareness programs on suicide prevention and mental health. One such session, highlighting suicide prevention and combating trafficking, was held in April at Naviyago village in Lautoka, acknowledging a troubling pattern of suicides in the area, including the recent death of the village headman’s son.
Laite Kuruilase, the wife of the village headman, recounted her personal loss when her son committed suicide on December 29 of last year. She expressed her sorrow and the desire to share knowledge gained from awareness workshops in the village about the factors leading to suicides and how such tragedies might be prevented.
She stated, “We have faced several suicide cases in our village and neighboring settlements, all occurring in similar circumstances. As a mother who lost my son to suicide, I learned valuable lessons from Empower Pacific’s awareness activities, and I intend to share this information broadly.”
Ms. Kuruilase emphasized the importance of speaking out about mental health challenges instead of suffering in silence. If anyone is grappling with mental health issues or having suicidal thoughts, they are encouraged to reach out to Empower Pacific’s 24/7 toll-free counselling helpline at 5626, which is supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade, the Rotary Club of Suva, and the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation.