Shift in suicide motifs

SSM’s reporting on suicide causes has shifted in its recent data disclosure in the third quarter of this year.

Historically, and up until the first quarter of this year, suicides have been primarily attributed to mental, chronic, or physiological illness. However, there has been a recent change, with SSM now reporting that the possible causes of suicide can be mainly attributed to “the result of mental illness and problems related to gambling or finances.”

However, the bureau acknowledged that the causes of suicide are complex and often involve mental illness, psychological, socio-economic, family, human relations, and biological genetic factors.

SSM added that the government and the bureau are paying special attention to suicide as an issue, which they have said “requires everyone’s attention, and everyone needs to take an active role as a suicide prevention advocate.”

The bureau calls on residents to take an active role in supporting and communicating with those who may be experiencing emotional distress, and encourage those who are experiencing emotional problems to actively seek professional help.

The bureau is also increasing training for community health professionals on mental health care and diagnostic and treatment techniques to integrate specialized mental health services into the community health system, aiming to integrate specialized mental health services into the community health system.

SSM appeals to anyone who is experiencing emotionally distressed to call the Caritas “Hope for Life” hotline at 2852 5222 for counseling services.