Professor sounds alarm on youth suicide risk

Despite Jamaica's low suicide rate, leading mental health expert Professor Wendel Abel has issued a stern warning about the alarming number of young people harbouring thoughts of suicide. While the country's suicide rate stands at a relatively low 2.1 per 100,000, Abel revealed a worrying trend among the youth.

"We are seeing a concerning number of young people reporting thoughts of suicide," said Abel, emphasising that their impulsive nature heightens the risk of tragic outcomes.

"Young people's mental health issues are significant, and their developing brains make them more vulnerable to impulsive actions," said Abel, who is head of community health and psychiatry in the Faculty of Medical Sciences at The University of the West Indies.

He stressed that mental health struggles among the youth, such as stress, depression, and substance abuse, are pushing many to the brink.

Adding to the complexity, Abel highlighted cultural beliefs that may have kept Jamaica's suicide rates low.

"Many Jamaicans believe that suicide carries severe spiritual repercussions," he explained, hinting that these fears may deter people from taking the final step.

September marks Suicide Prevention Month. Dr Kevin Goulbourne, director of mental health at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, pointed to the ministry's 'Do Your Share' campaign as a vital tool in addressing the mental health crisis.

"Our ongoing mass media campaign encourages individuals to use safe spaces to share their concerns and problems, while others listen and provide support," said Goulbourne.

He reported that suicide numbers have fluctuated in recent years, with an average of 50 to 60 deaths annually. Men account for more than 80 per cent of suicides on the island. In 2023, 56 men compared to 10 women took their own lives. By 2024, 47 men and four women were reported victims.

Abel believes that cultural shifts and global influences are hitting Jamaica's youth hard, leading to increased mental health struggles.

While praising the ministry's efforts, Abel issued a stark warning: "The campaigns are important, but more needs to be done. Our young people's lives depend on it.

"There is still a lot to be done in terms of raising awareness. We need to focus on mental health literacy, especially in schools, to help young people cope with their stress and trauma," he urged.