Suicide prevention month: Public urged to take part in more Mental Health discussions

CEBU, Philippines — As the country celebrates Suicide Prevention every September of the year, the Cebu Provincial Board hopes more Cebuanos would take part in the discussion of mental health.

With this, the Provincial Board recently approved a resolution recognizing the Suicide Prevention Month in the province.

"With the current problem, in the rising problem of suicide, it very important to have open conversation about mental health...that every member of the society may understand that mental health is just as important as physical health," said Board Member Loren Singco, SK Provincial Federation president, who authored the resolution.

With this approval, the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation (SKF) presidents and local government units (LGU) of the province are urged to support mental health awareness-related efforts, such as but not limited to the programs of the Philippine Mental Health Association Cebu Chapter, Department of Health (DOH), and Department of Education (DepEd).

Singco, who chairs the Committee on Youth and Sports Development, together with the Pambansang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan (PPSK) Cebu, aims to stand in solidarity with those affected by suicide.

They have also pledged to work together to create a space where everyone feels valued, supported, and safe.

Further, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan also encourages private sectors, organizations, and government agencies to collaborate in promoting mental health and to reduce the stigma of such discussions.

"Suicide prevention is everyone's responsibility, and raising awareness can reduce stigma, encourage those in need to seek help, and save lives," read a portion of the resolution.

It also stated that open conversations about mental health and suicide, together with education and outreach, are essential in fostering an environment where individuals feel free to ask for help.

Moreover, the PB has stressed on the importance of better access to mental health care; crisis intervention; and support services as it is critical in reducing the risk of suicide.

"Suicide Prevention Month is an opportunity for all sectors of society to come together, promote awareness, and take action to prevent suicide," the resolution reads. — (FREEMAN)