Use social and spiritual space to advocate suicide prevention – Sanatan Dharm

We need to use our social and spiritual space to advocate suicide prevention and provide words of encouragement to those who are losing hope.

This is the message from the Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji, as many people who are stressed or face personal issues are taking their own lives.

The Sanatan Dharm further says people have to remind their loved ones, friends and work colleagues that the struggles are temporary and we need to focus on positive opportunities.

They say we need to continue to create healthy talking sessions with the children to understand their problems and what can be done to ensure they don't feel alone.

According to the Fiji Police Force statistics, there have been a total of 1,276 suicide cases from 2016-2021 and an average of 213 attempted cases per year, with about half of the numbers leading to deaths.

Minister for Health and Medical Service, Doctor Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu earlier said the Western Division recorded the most cases every year, for six years.

Lalabalavu adds every individual suicide has far-reaching emotional, social and economic consequences and deeply affects families, local communities and nations across the globe.

If you need to talk to someone or you know someone who needs help you can contact Lifeline Fiji on 1543 or Empower Pacific on 5626.