Dr Pundit: Prioritise Mental Health

There has been insufficient investment in prioritising mental health and well-being in our society, said Dr Balram Pundit, the senior medical superintendent at the St Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva.

In observing World Suicide Prevention Day, the Ministry of Health hosted a panel discussion at the St. Pius X Parish Raiwaqa Catholic Church on Tuesday.

The discussion focused on the stigma surrounding the causes of suicide and how it can be prevented.

Dr Pundit said the stigma associated with suicide required immediate attention, noting that inadequate investment in mental health facilities and support for those suffering in silence contributed to the problem.

“It’s not just about monetary support, we need investment in other areas, such as changing behaviours towards the issue,” Dr Pundit said.

“We need the right space and the right people to address this crucial issue.”

Allocating sufficient resources to support youths facing mental health challenges and providing them with safe spaces to express themselves is essential, Dr Pundit said.

According to the Fiji Police Force, there have been 63 suicide cases from January 1 to August 22, compared to 66 cases during the same period last year.

Nationally, there have been 44 attempted suicides, down from 47 in the previous year.

Acting Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sakeo Raikaci described the statistics as extremely worrying.

Among the reported cases, there were eight suicides and five attempted suicides involving individuals under 18 years of age.

Those over 60 years recorded the highest number of reported cases, with 19 suicides and two attempted suicide cases.

The statistics also reveal a higher prevalence of suicide cases among males, with 50 reported cases.

ACP Raikaci is urging community leaders to help shift the narrative.

“We need to nurture a more understanding and supportive culture and create safe spaces for open dialogue,” ACP Raikaci said.

“As we tackle modern policing challenges, we must also address cyberbullying and encourage Fijians to be more compassionate in the virtual world.”

Common factors linked to suicide and attempted suicide cases include spousal disputes, family conflicts, relationship problems, stress, and illness.

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