Georgetown : The National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Program under the Nirvana Humanitarian Society was launched yesterday with a walk from theLeonora Synthetic Track to Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara.
Minister of Public Health Dr. George Norton at the launch, in support of the program which aims to alert and prevent Guyanese from committing suicide stated that, “over the years we have experienced alarmingly high figures in suicide and suicide attempt cases, taking our beautiful nation to the top of the list of countries with the highest suicide rates. This has not only affected persons directly connected to a situation, but to the country at large.”
Acute emotional distress and depression are common risk factors identified by researchers. Common causes of suicide, “are related to family problems, couple problems, inter- personal conflict and religious to cultural influences and differences,” Norton pointed out. He further explained that, “the loss of life by suicide affects family, friends and other loved ones.”, Minister Norton explained.
This has a major effect on communities which is why suicide prevention is everyone’s business. Involvement from leaders, various organizations, Ministries, non- governmental organizations and the entire population, “is very important in raising this awareness,” Norton added.
Additionally Norton went on to say that, “it is important to note that support of friends and relatives are crucial for people who may be at risk of suicide and for people who have lost someone to suicide.”
Norton urged youths contemplating suicide that, “you got the whole of the life ahead of you, look around and see the folks that came here with us today. They might not have had it so good, but they didn’t give up.”
“Let us be proactive. Let us all recognize that suicide is not the answer and we must always say yes to life,” Norton advocated.
The National Suicide Prevention helpline which was launched last year will continue to serve everyone and has already proven to be vital in saving lives. However, this approach, requires that all Guyanese must work together to reduce the high rates of suicides.
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