Mental Health

Health Bureau reports 15 suicide cases for Q3

Health Bureau (SSM) has reported a 4.3% decline in the number of suicides during the third quarter (Q3) of this year compared to the same period last year.

According to SSM’s analysis of suicide-related fatalities, there were a total of 15 confirmed suicides, involving seven males and eight females aged between 15 and 86 years old.

A significant majority (13) of these cases were Macau residents, accounting for 86.7% of the total.

The same officials also noted that when comparing the current year’s data to 2022 for the first three quarters (January to September), there is a greater drop in suicide rates at 4.6%.

Data analysis in Q3 suggests that mental illnesses as well as chronic or physiological illnesses are the primary contributing factors to suicide. SSM added that the causes of suicide are complex and often involve mental health issues, psychological, socioeconomic, family dynamics, interpersonal relationships and biological / genetic factors.

The Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) urges residents to remain vigilant about their psychological and emotional well-being, as well as those of their relatives and friends. In times of need, residents can call Caritas’ Life Hope hotline (28525222) or IAS’ counseling hotline (28261126). RM

Categories Macau