Men advised to seek counselling amid rising suicide rate

Men experiencing domestic violence, relationship issues and other factors that physically and psychological affect them must seek help from counsellors.

Healing Hands Foundation Fiji counsellor and founder, Mohenesh Singh says there is support available for men to combat suicidal approaches.

“It is high time men break out of the silence and report to police if they feel their rights are being violated,” Mr Singh said.

“Should you feel scared, isolated and confused; ashamed or afraid; you, can seek help from organisations like the one I run,” he said.

Mr Singh takes time to advocate to male youths to help them understand ways to solve their problem.

“Men should share their situation so that they do not dwell on suicidal thoughts,” he said.

Mr Singh shared that on a daily basis in the Northern Division, five to six men share their problems with him.

“According to my case observations, I have noted some leading factors causing men to commit suicide are domestic violence from their partner, relationship issues and financial difficulties.

“Men involved in alcohol and illicit drugs are also at risk of committing suicide.”

He said the ideology of society in Fiji towards men discouraged them from reporting their abuse experiences.

“In Fiji, it is common that the pressure of trying to be seen as a ‘strong man’ can often make it difficult for men to seek counselling or help.

“Although it may be difficult to overcome these fears, it’s important to recognise that the abuse will likely continue until you take steps to escape.”

The suicide report given by police for the national suicidal statistics for men and women from January to October 2023, identified that men recorded the highest number of suicide and attempted suicide cases.

Males accounted for 90 cases while there were 40 females.

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