As 61 people have taken their own lives this year compared to 63 in the same period last year, Empower Pacific has highlighted the importance of strengthening early identification, accessible mental health and psychosocial support, family and community support, and timely referral for people experiencing distress or crisis.
Empower Pacific confirms that from 1st January to 31st July this year, they have provided counselling and social work support to 169 individuals who had attempted suicide or engaged in deliberate self-harm.
They say of these, 137 individuals sought counselling support for attempted suicide and deliberate self-harm, out of which 32 individuals also sought social work support.
A total of 110 individuals who received counselling support following attempted suicide were recorded, including 46 males, 63 females and one female person with a disability.
The highest number of counselling cases was recorded among those aged 18 to 25 years, followed by those aged until 17 years.
Women and girls aged 18 to 25 years recorded the highest number of attempted suicide cases.
Empower Pacific Chief Executive Officer Patrick Morgan says suicide is influenced by multiple and often interconnected factors rather than one single cause.
He says based on Empower Pacific's data, some of the challenges identified by the individuals include relationship and family difficulties, domestic violence, prolonged stress, alcohol and other drug use, mental health concerns, grief and loss, trauma, health concerns, work andschool-related pressures, and socioeconomic and financial difficulties.
Morgan says Fiji continues to face gaps in specialist mental health resources and access to services.
He says WHO reports that Fiji has a low specialist mental health workforce, with geographical remoteness and limited transportation also creating challenges in accessing services.
Morgan says WHO identifies strengthening and decentralising mental health services, increasing workforce capacity, and training non-specialist health-care providers as important priorities.
Morgam says there is also a need to strengthen public awareness and reduce stigma and discrimination as it can discourage people from seeking or accepting the help they need.
He says some warning signs may include withdrawing from family and friends, significant changes in mood or behaviour, expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden, increased substance use, giving away valued belongings, or talking about death or not wanting to live.
The CEO stresses that prevention starts with noticing changes, asking directly and compassionately if someone is struggling, listening without judgement, and helping them connect with appropriate support.
Morgam says people who appear to be at immediate risk should not be left alone and should be connected with urgent professional or emergency support.
He also emphasises that suicide prevention is a shared responsibility and a simple conversation, early support and a safe connection to appropriate services can make a difference.
If you or someone you know is struggling, Empower Pacific’s 24/7 toll-free counselling helpline, 5626, is available for support.
