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Health Ministry urges ‘honest discussions about suicide prevention’

The Ministry of Health and Social Development has said it is continuing its promotion of suicide awareness and is encouraging honest discussions about suicide prevention. Photo: jamaica-star.com
Director of Mental Health Services at the BVI Health Services Authority, Dr Virginia O. Rubaine said there must be conversations to raise awareness about the need to reduce stigma about suicide prevention. Photo: Facebook
Director of Mental Health Services at the BVI Health Services Authority, Dr Virginia O. Rubaine said there must be conversations to raise awareness about the need to reduce stigma about suicide prevention. Photo: Facebook
World Suicide Prevention Day was observed on September 10, 2024, under the theme, 'Changing the Narrative on Suicide'. Photo: GIS
World Suicide Prevention Day was observed on September 10, 2024, under the theme, 'Changing the Narrative on Suicide'. Photo: GIS
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- The Ministry of Health and Social Development has said it is continuing its promotion of suicide awareness and is encouraging honest discussions about suicide prevention.

‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’

Director of Mental Health Services at the BVI Health Services Authority, Dr Virginia O. Rubaine in remarks to observe World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2024, said the day’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” calls for conversations to raise awareness about the need to reduce stigma about suicide prevention.

Dr Rubaine said the theme compels the public to foster: Openness: Encourage candid conversations about mental health and suicidal thoughts; Understanding: Cultivate empathy and comprehension about the multifaceted nature of suicide; and Support: Build communities where individuals feel safe to seek help and support for themselves or loved ones in crisis.

A crucial step

The director said that talking more openly about suicide, can provide a safe space for people to express how they truly feel and get the support they need. 

She said, “Changing the narrative around suicide is a crucial step in how we address this intricate and deeply complex issue. Starting the conversation is the first step towards shattering the silence surrounding suicide. We must transform the way we perceive this complex issue and shift from a culture of silence and stigma to one of candidness, empathy and support.”

What can the community do?

According to a Government Information Service (GIS) press release on September 11, 2024, the community is asked to do its part by doing the following: Educate others and ourselves: Learn about the warning signs of suicide and effective preventative measures; Be there: Show empathy and support to those who may be struggling; Promote resources: Share information about available mental health resources and support services; and Engage with communities: Participate in community events and advocacy efforts aimed at suicide prevention.

“Let us commit to creating a world where understanding, compassion, and support replace silence, stigma, and isolation. By initiating fundamental dialogues we can break down barriers, raise awareness and create a culture of support. Together, we can make a difference,” the director urged.

10 Responses to “Health Ministry urges ‘honest discussions about suicide prevention’”

  • .... (12/09/2024, 13:42) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    sad thing is I battle with this everyday...cant speak to anyone cause they watch you funny...no one really understands the pain a person feels an the more you try to express your self the more people shut you down..fail attempt hanging from a rope to taking pills is always you could always come and talk to me but when the time comes no one never wants to listen..

    with no real help the end so will be the end for many like me...fighting personal demons

    signed Lost Soul
    • in it (12/09/2024, 14:30) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      You are not a lost soul; however, I empathise. The conversation about suicide and understanding are easier said than done. Many don't know or don't want to handle it. It's like when you open up to people they end up being in denial about what you told them. Stay strong!
    • Aye (12/09/2024, 15:59) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      if i aint give up you cant either and trust me i had a tough life.. still tough but i going see it through to the end
    • @… (12/09/2024, 17:08) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
      My advice to you is to really seek God. It worked for me! Pray everyday. Morning and at night. Tell him what is bothering you and ask him to heal you . Believe me, he will answer! God is love! Seek him !
    • Sigh (12/09/2024, 20:29) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Lord, I ask you to heal the mind, heart and spirit of this person in Jesus name… times are hard and many of us are fighting silent battles we don’t even speak about… I myself are too….but we oath to truly seek God and ask him for healing! Hope this response finds you and always remember you have a friend in Jesus! Go into your quiet room talk to him, cry, scream whatever you need to do .. talk to him when there seems to be no one else …. Don’t give up the fight!
  • Marlon Brain dead (12/09/2024, 15:23) Like (0) Dislike (2) Reply


    What was the Hon Marlon thinking when he give this wa$*£ this important Job...If he wanted some one from his district he had a lot of better choices. Say what you all want, I will vote everytime for a white person in that position. Truth be told seems like black has no or very little interest in black well being..

  • Really (12/09/2024, 15:25) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    The COVID vaccine is known for causing this right now because that's what the study says right now. Pray to remove the Mark out of you.
  • Native Senior Citizen of the British Virgin Islands (12/09/2024, 18:22) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Suicide prevention is a very important issue, and it should be taken seriously not only in the BVI but world. There are many of reasons why many people have committed suicide.

    1. A. Inadequate knowledge of the Creator of human, and his true purpose and responsible to God and man while living on this earth.

    1. B. Lack of living faith in God His Creator promised communicated instructions.

    2. Mental, physical and emotional stress due to hardship.

    3. Lose of hope.

    4. Great of finances.

    5. Overdose of drugs included liquid drugs

    6. Long period of isolation.

    7. Brutal imprisonment by prison guards.

    8. Inferiority complexity.

    9. Arrogance, ignorant mindset.

    10. Pride, etc.

    Question: What can be done?

    Answer:. Wise Counseling from wise persons, but not from most politicians

  • pay (12/09/2024, 18:41) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    People pay attention to your surrounding, your family, your neighbors, your friends, your enemies pay attention because people need help. Learn to keep your mouth close ears open because people need a safe haven people you can trust. Be a friend and help save a life
  • Native Senior Citizen of the British Virgin Islands (12/09/2024, 19:15) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    @. Lost Soul:

    You are not lost. In your mind you think that you are, but God knows everything about your situation, as does He everyone else. He is looking at you now. He knows your name. He love you dearly. He care for you passionately, He sees your tears, and He will address your problems, if you are willing to cast your burdens upon Him.

    No living person is and will be free of problems, but our love for is far greater than all our problems. Seek His face. His grace is available to all those, you included that place their trust in His Word of truth printed in a Volume namely:. The Holy Bible.

    Done give up. Try not to look back. The past is gone, never again to return. You are a very valuable person. God will listen to you and guide correctly. Don't be to hard on yourself. Somethings are irreparable, but you are, if you let God mend your broke heart (mind).

    Cut tie from all demonic connections, now.


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