BAGUIO CITY – In addition to celebrating Generics Awareness Month, the Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) is also be observing World Suicide Prevention Month from September 10 to October 10.
The theme for this year’s observance is “Together, we can #BeTheLight, and through action, we can build a world where suicides are not as prevalent.”
Orly T. Primo, Senior Health Program Officer for the Mental Health and Substance Use (Illicit) Program, discussed the global and national suicide statistics, causes, risks, and protective factors related to suicide prevention.
Globally, approximately 703,000 people die by suicide each year, representing over 1% of 100 deaths in 2019. In terms of sex difference, the statistics show that men are more than twice as likely as women to die by suicide.
According to national statistics, the rate is lower than the global average at 9 per 100,000 people. Amongst the younger group, suicide in the Philippines occurs more among young adults aged 15-29 years old. Primo said, “Young people are more exposed to suicide.”
In terms of gender disparity, men are also more likely to die by suicide than women. The suicide rate among men is higher than women, with 4.3 per 100,000 for men and 2.1 per 100,000 for women.
Primo stated, “Suicide is not only caused by one factor; suicide is complex.” Risk factors of committing suicide do not rely on one, but with various factors consisting of relationship problems (42%), crisis in the past or present (29%), physical health problems (22%), criminal legal problems (5%), loss of housing (4%), financial situation (16%), and problematic substance use (28%).
On the other hand, protective factors for preventing suicide consist of self-esteem, problem, and life-solving skills, engaging with cultural, regional, or personal beliefs, connectedness to family, community, and social institutions, and access to effective behavioral health care.
Primo shared during the conference that “Talking about suicide is opening doors to someone in that mental state; it is opening about the emotional and mental health of helping individuals.”
The discussion concluded with practical advice on changing the narrative around suicide. Key recommendations include checking in with loved ones, staying informed about mental health issues, sharing personal stories, and advocating for mental health awareness. Additionally, participating in organizational and workplace training, supporting public awareness campaigns and funding mental health resources.
NCMH Crisis Hotline: 1553-Nationwide landline toll-free, 0917 899 8726-Globe and TM subscribers, 0966 351 4518-Globe and TM subscribers, 0908 639 2672-Smart and TM subscribers and Regional Crisis Hotlines: https://bit.ly/39EX9KA By Rachelle Gem Quilling
