Suicide Cases On The Rise

Between 2016 and 2021, the Fiji Police Force recorded 1276 suicides and at-tempted cases.

This is an average of 212 cases per year, with about half the number leading to deaths.

Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted this in Parliament on Friday after being questioned with regards to the suicide prevention efforts by the ministry.

“The highest number of suicide and attempted suicide cases were recorded in 2019 with 244 cases, and the Western Division recorded the most cases every year for six years,” Dr Lalabalavu said.

“Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.”

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), about 800,000 people die by suicide every year.

Dr Lalabalavu said the call to action encouraged everyone to start the conversation on suicide and prevention.

He said every conversation, no matter how small, contributed to a supportive and understanding society.

“By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise aware-ness, and create better cultures of support,” he said.

“In our churches, our mosques, our sporting fields, and kava sessions, let’s start this conversation.”

Feedback:  jone.salusalu@fijisun.com.fj