IN LIGHT of recent suicide cases, an America-based non-profit organization focused on health and development has encouraged local government units in Cebu to establish wellness centers, particularly in remote areas, as the world commemorated World Suicide Prevention Day, on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023.
Julie Ann Ewican-Samson, coordinator of the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Program Project of Americares Philippines, on Thursday, Sept. 4, said they are willing to provide training to the staff of rural health units on how to deal with such cases.
Samson said that, so far, three towns and one city in northern Cebu have partnered with them since 2015. These are the towns of Carmen, Catmon, Tudela, and the City of Bogo.
“We empower them by providing training to equip them to offer mental health and psychosocial support,” she said in a mix of Cebuano and English.
She added that their non-profit organization would provide the necessary equipment and supplies to run the wellness center.
Samson said people living in towns and cities outside Cebu City also deserve access to mental health services. However, due to the distance from available help, they often do not receive adequate care.
World Suicide Prevention Day
The World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually every Sept. 10 since 2003, aims to raise awareness and foster global commitment and action in the prevention of suicides.
Samson said they would work closely with their partner areas and schools to connect with youngsters, particularly by educating them about essential aspects of mental health through symposiums.
She said suicide remains a significant issue among teenagers, which she considers alarming. Therefore, psychosocial activities are planned for young participants.
According to a 2021 report by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, suicide committed by young people remains a significant issue. Children, adolescents, and young adults who commit suicide have the second-highest overall mortality rate.
Samson, citing data from the Department of Health (DOH) 7, noted that Cebu has the highest number of suicide cases in the region, with most of them committed by young adults aged 17 to 25 years old. However, she did not disclose specific figures of the cases.
Helpline
Psychometrician Christian Abarca of the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) said individuals seeking immediate help can contact them through their Tawag Paglaum-Centro Bisaya helpline.
Tawag Paglaum Centro Bisaya, a government-run program jointly operated by the DOH and VSMMC, aims to provide assistance to those going through emotional crises, especially those at risk of suicide. It is a 24/7 call-based service available every day of the week.
Abarca emphasized the importance of having available outlets where individuals experiencing a mental crisis can express their feelings.
“Some of them just want [to have] someone to talk to. It helps a lot. It goes a long way already if they have someone to talk with who listens without judgment so that they can discuss even the most uncomfortable things,” he said.
Those wishing to access free counseling and consultation services by phone may contact the helpline at (0939) 937-5433 and (0927) 654-1629.