The Health Bureau (SSM) has recorded a total of 15 suicides in Macau in the last quarter of 2022 – October to December (Q4), according to a statement from the SSM.
The figure represents a drop both when compared to the previous quarter (-20%) and year-on-year with the same quarter of 2021 (-46.7%).
The majority of the cases recorded were local residents (80%), while non-residents comprised the remaining 20%.
Those who passed away in this period were aged between 22 and 96 years old.
The SSM stated that data analysis showed that “the main and potential causes of suicide are chronic or physiological illnesses, mental illnesses, casino games or financial problems,” without specifying how many cases related to each causes.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 700,000 people died by suicide every year worldwide, and suicide was the cause of death in one in every 100 deaths.
The SSM also notes that even though the causes for suicide are complex and often involve mental illness, psychological, socioeconomic, and family factors, as well as relationship issues and genetic predispositions. “It is worth emphasizing that suicide is preventable and all sectors of society must unite in suicide prevention,” the bureau warned.
The SSM provided advice, stating that “To help reduce the incidence of suicide, residents should connect with, communicate with, and care about the people around them in their daily lives and encourage those who are struggling emotionally to actively seek professional help.”
The bureau also added that mental health services are available to residents, who may access these services at the healthcare centers of Tap Seac, Fai Chi Kei, Areia Preta, Ilha Verde, Jardins do Oceano, Nossa Senhora do Carmo – Lago, Praia do Manduco and Seac Pai Van.
Additional services are also paid for by non-profit associations, such as the “Kai Fong” Association and the Women’s General Association of Macau.
The SSM calls on anyone experiencing emotional distress to call the Caritas Life Hope Hotline (2852 5222) to access counseling services.
