Men facing domestic violence, relationship problems, and other factors that impact them both physically and psychologically are encouraged to seek help from counselors. Mohenesh Singh, the founder of the Healing Hands Foundation Fiji, emphasizes that there is support available for men battling suicidal thoughts.
“It is crucial for men to break their silence and report to the police if they feel their rights are being violated,” Mr. Singh stated. He urged individuals who feel scared, isolated, or ashamed to reach out to organizations like his for assistance.
Mr. Singh actively advocates for male youths, helping them find ways to address their problems. “Men should share their experiences to avoid dwelling on suicidal thoughts,” he noted.
In his observations, Mr. Singh revealed that he encounters five to six men daily in the Northern Division who confide in him about their issues. He identified several factors contributing to male suicides, including domestic violence from partners, relationship troubles, and financial challenges. Additionally, men struggling with alcohol and illicit drugs are at a heightened risk of suicide.
He pointed out that societal attitudes in Fiji often discourage men from reporting their experiences of abuse. The pressure to conform to the image of a “strong man” can make it difficult for them to seek help. “While overcoming these fears may be challenging, it’s vital to recognize that the abuse is likely to persist unless steps are taken to escape it,” he advised.
Recent police reports on suicide statistics for the period from January to October 2023 show that men accounted for the majority of both suicide and attempted suicide cases, with 90 incidents involving males compared to 40 involving females.