PRESS RELEASE - The Mental Health Services team under the leadership of the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Human Services and Gender Relations recognizes the need to further educate the nation on suicide prevention especially taking into consideration the many challenges which confront us.
Suicide is a major public health problem. The psychological pain that leads each of these individuals to take their lives is unimaginable. Their deaths leave families and friends bereft, and often have a major ripple effect on communities.
Suicide is the fifth leading cause of death among those aged 30-49 years in 2012 globally, and is the second leading cause of death in the 15-29 years age group in 2012 globally.
Overall, it is estimated that during 2012 for each adult who died of suicide there were 27 others who made suicide attempts. (www.iasp.info/wspd).
This year, we will be recognizing this event under the theme, ‘Suicide Prevention: One world connected’. In light of this, you are invited to a mini exhibition/symposium on September 10th 2014 at the Auditorium of the Wellness Centre from 9:00 am.
We thank you for your effort and interest in the commitment to prevent suicide in Saint Lucia.
It is our hope that we as individuals, organizations and interest groups will offer support one for another in an effort to save lives.