Government initiates suicide prevention initiative
Hawaii is taking a proactive approach to combat the rising issue of suicide, with a statewide initiative aiming to reduce suicide rates by at least 25% by 2025. This ambitious goal is spearheaded by the Prevent Suicide Hawaii Task Force.
In the recent past, Oahu has seen the highest number of suicide-related deaths, but Hawaii County has the highest suicide death rate when considering the five-year age-adjusted rate for individuals aged 15 and over. This sobering statistic underscores the urgency of the situation.
To address this pressing issue, the state Department of Health and partnering agencies have announced a series of events statewide next month. These events aim to offer support and raise awareness about suicide, a leading cause of death across all age groups in Hawaii.
The month of September, which annually recognizes World Suicide Prevention Day on the 10th, has been declared Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. Several events are planned throughout the month, with seven events scheduled on the Big Island alone.
One of the key events is the SafeTALK training, a free suicide prevention programme, scheduled for September 8. This training aims to educate individuals on how to recognise signs of suicide and respond effectively. Another significant event is the 'How to Have the Uncomfortable Conversation' seminar, scheduled for September 12, which aims to equip participants with the skills to discuss suicide with empathy and compassion.
Adult Mental Health First Aid training is available on September 15, while a Suicide Prevention Awareness Walk is planned for September 20. The Hawaii Island Prevent Suicide Task Force will host sign-waving on September 27, and the Any is Too Many Suicide Awareness Sign Waving Campaign is scheduled for September 22.
Notably, the 2nd Annual Veteran Resource Fair is scheduled for August 30, preceding the month-long awareness campaign. This event is aimed at providing resources and support to veterans, a group that statistically has higher suicide rates.
Gov. Josh Green has emphasised the importance of every connection made in preventing suicide, stating, "Every person reached can bring us closer to a future where fewer families in Hawaii experience suicide."
The 2023 Hawaii Youth Risk Behavior Survey revealed concerning statistics about the mental health of Hawaii's youth. About 34% of public middle school students reported feeling sad or hopeless almost every day for two or more weeks in a row, and about 26% had seriously considered suicide.
In an effort to combat these statistics, statewide resources are available for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts or interested in suicide prevention. By calling or texting 988, individuals can reach the anonymous crisis, mental health, and substance abuse Hawaii CARES 988 call center.
These events and resources underscore Hawaii's commitment to addressing suicide and supporting those in need. By working together, we can strive to create a future where every life matters.
