Santo Domingo.– Suicide is a health problem that can be prevented in 9.5% of cases, as it is an expression of an illness that often results from other behaviors such as addictions, as stated yesterday by the Minister of Public Health, Víctor Atallah.
He clarified that this does not reflect weakness or cowardice, but rather requires support from institutions, the family and society in general.
On World Suicide Prevention Day yesterday, Atallah said that although suicidal behaviour is sometimes unpredictable (5% of cases), it should not be forgotten that anyone who, for whatever reason, is considered at risk of engaging in such behaviour can be helped.
Incidence
He explained that the annual suicide rate in the country is between 6.5 and 7 per 100,000 inhabitants, below that of the most developed countries, but it is not an alarming situation, nor is it a reason to faint, since decisive actions are required to reduce its incidence.
The official insisted that this support should not only come from the initial intervention of mental health professionals, but mainly from a preventive component that involves the family, the social group and an education aimed at eliminating myths surrounding the act of suicide.
Psychiatrist Jeanette Taveras said that the people most prone to this problem are adults over 65 years of age, contrary to the idea that this phenomenon only affects the young population.
Last year, 669 cases were recorded in the country, of which 576 were men and 93 were women, according to official figures.
The doctor said that mental health should be addressed without myths, while urging support for those who are going through a situation that leads them to attempt to take their own lives.
Taveras said that many times these people just need to connect with someone and have them listen to them.
Public Health Position
The Deputy Minister of Collective Health, Eladio Pérez, called on everyone to be aware that suicide can be prevented in most cases and that its occurrence can decrease if people do not allow themselves to be influenced by prejudices.
Pérez said that the State has increased its efforts to reduce the number of cases by using prevention tools such as education and the availability of mental health devices and professionals accessible to the entire population.
World Suicide Prevention Day is celebrated to raise awareness and implement different strategies to prevent this disease worldwide.
This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) theme is “Changing the narrative” for a culture of support.
People at risk
— Role of the press
The minister urged the media not to highlight details of suicide, such as methods used, motives for the act, and others, because they undoubtedly encourage suicidal behavior.
