National Suicide Prevention Strategy launched

The National Suicide Prevention Strategy 2025-2029 has been launched today, with the goal of reducing the suicide rate by one-third. 

The Strategy was launched by Director General of Health Services Dr Ahmed Ashraf at a ceremony held at the Health Ministry today. 

The Strategy seeks to identify key priorities for reducing suicides linked to mental health challenges, set clear milestones, and expand access to mental health services. 

It also aims to enhance mechanisms for identifying vulnerable persons and delivering prompt support, while promoting digital and media awareness and encouraging greater parental involvement. 

Health Ministry noted that suicides linked to mental health are a significant concern in global public health. Over 720,000 suicides are recorded annually. This is much higher rate compared to those who die of HIV/AIDS, measles, breast cancer or similar ailments. 

Previous studies conducted in the Maldives indicate:

- 18.7 percent women who are victims of domestic violence experience suicidal thoughts

- 14 percent women who are victims of domestic violence have attempted suicide

- 1 in 20 people harbour thoughts of self-harm or suicide

In its statement of the Strategy, the Health Ministry noted that mental health issues are increasingly prevalent, driven by shifting societal conditions and range of other contributing factors. 

This includes lack of adequate education, financial difficulties, sexual abuse, domestic violence, long-term substance abuse and other factors. 

The ministry also noted that the Covid-19 pandemic had led to a two-fold increase in mental health issues, with depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicide rates seeing a sharp spike. 

The ministry acknowledged the stigma around mental health remains a major obstacle for individuals seeking support. Families and communities tend to react negatively to those seeking support for mental health issues, they said, using labels like 'scary', 'crazy', or 'attention-seeking' to dismiss those in need. 

They emphasized the need for national level action, warning that failure to address the issue could negatively impact the country's overall productivity.