SPREADING the message that suicide prevention is a realistic goal, the Ba-based Lifeline Fiji yesterday celebrated World Suicide Prevention Day.
One of the few issues that the NGO deals directly with are emotionally unstable and suicidal people, the group has been working with stakeholders to find solutions to this growing health problem.
Lifeline Fiji vice-president and crisis intervention officer Neelam Chand said the group dealt with the emotional wellbeing of individuals.
"We look after the emotional wellbeing of people by providing face-to-face and telephone counselling and are strongly focused on helping people to overcome suicidal thoughts and feelings," she said.
"We offer counselling and guidance and we also work closely with the Ministry of Health, the Social Welfare Department, Education Ministry and the Police Department."
Ms Chand said many of those who sought their help often needed someone to listen to their problems.
"All they need is someone to listen and someone to talk to.
"We usually hold face-to-face counselling with them and offer them help. We sometimes refer them to the relevant authority when they need further help."
She said every year, millions of people committed suicide.
"This is about 1.5 per cent of all deaths, making suicide the 10th leading cause of death globally.
"Every 40 seconds another family loses a loved one to suicide. While the risk factors for suicide are universal, their importance and nature differs across countries and cultures.
"Every year this rate is increasing. This is really alarming for the entire population. Most people who attempt suicide can get through this crisis with the help of family and friends."
The group will be at Ba Library tomorrow for Library Week and offer more information about its services.