BSP injects fund into suicide prevention efforts
BSP Financial Group Ltd (BSP) gifted $5000 to Lifeline Fiji suicide prevention efforts. BSP country head Haroon Ali commended Lifeline Fiji for the role to assist individuals at risk of suicide via its toll-free line 1543.
“At a time when we are all enduring many challenges, mental health support work is even more critical and we are delighted to make a financial contribution towards this,” he said.
“Our support is a way of reminding and encouraging Fijians to get help and we hope it also boosts morale for the team behind the 1543 toll-free help line.”
According to Lifeline Fiji statistics released in November 2021 a total of 59 suicides were recorded, of which 47 were males and 12 females. It was stated the number that attempted suicide was much higher.
Lifeline Fiji’s Jeremaia Merekula confirmed that 70 per cent of those who committed suicides were aged 17 and over — classing them in the ‘most at risk’ segment.
“The pandemic, including the lockdown and isolation period, was a big contributor,” he said.
“During this festive season, the level of risk also increases and we are appealing to families, friends and communities to stay tuned to the emotional needs of those around you.”
It was stated that Lifeline Fiji 1543 toll free line received an average of 170 calls per month.
“This year, our counsellors have managed to prevent suicides through collaborative efforts with partner organisations such as Youth Champs 4 Mental Health, Psychiatric Survivors Association and others.
“This $5000 donation by BSP is a much-needed boost for our team and we will surely put it to good use.”
In a statement BSP stated it has re-invested more than $10 million into various programs to give back to Fijian communities since 2010.
BSP has supported Lifeline Fiji since 2016. The donation was in acknowledgement of the efforts by Lifeline Fiji and its team of highly trained counsellors who helped people recognise their mental health situation and were prepared to seek help outside their circles.