Baguio suicide cases up by 60%

BAGUIO CITY: Local health authorities reported that suicide cases in the city have increased by as much as 60 percent during the Covid-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period.

Dr. Khezy Colas, medical officer of the City Health Services Office (CHSO), said there were 59 suicide cases documented from 2017 to 2019, which rose to 95 cases from 2020 to 2022.

Most suicides are related to mental illness, she said.

To address the issue, the CHSO has stepped up the city’s mental health and wellness program.

Colas disclosed that the top five issues that were given attention by the CHSO mental health unit are depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and personality disorder.

She added that the CHSO mental health unit is always open to provide counseling to residents and guidance to address their situation.

Colas said individuals experiencing mental health issues can go to the 16 district health centers in the city for initial assessment.

She emphasized that the counseling services being provided by the health department are free.