People urged to seek assistance in the fight against mental health and suicide as Police recorded 94 suicide cases last year

People have been urged to seek assistance in the fight against mental health and suicide as Police recorded 94 suicide cases and 108 attempted suicide cases last year.

7 victims were under 16-years of age, 21 were aged between 17-25 while the rest were above the age of 26.

Of the 108 attempted suicide cases, 12 were under 16 years, 40 victims were aged between 17-25 years and the rest were aged above 26.

While virtually launching the 2021 National Mental Health Month, Health Minister Dr. Ifereimi Waqainabete says the COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the effects of inequality on health outcomes and no nation, however rich, has been fully prepared for this.

Dr Waqainabete says mental health and suicide has always been a challenge for the country before the COVID-19 pandemic.

He says as a nation, we have fought hard to this day, but unfortunately, some of us lose close family members and friends that should have been here otherwise.

He adds with this year’s theme “Mental Health in an Unequal World” they aim to work together, through their membership and beyond, to create a movement of preventative action, with sustained messaging to drive behaviour change and ultimately prevent more suicides.

If you need to talk to someone or need help please contact Lifeline Fiji on 1543, Telehealth on 165, the National Domestic violence helpline on 1560, Child Helpline on 1325, Empower Pacific on 5626, Medical Services Pacific on 5640 or Alcoholics Anonymous on 9392190.