St. Lucia has seen an increase in the number of males committing suicide.
Police reports have confirmed that out of the seven suicides recorded on island so far this year, six were males.
Reports have also suggested that more males have been committing suicide over the years.
Minister of Gender Relations Alvina Reynolds, who commented on the issue recently at a public forum, has advised that persons watch out for warning signs that may lead to suicide and get relatives the support they need in dealing with whatever issues they are faced with.
“It is evident that persons are finding difficulties in dealing with the number of issues that confront them and when the difficulties arises, they may not always know where to turn and that is why family support is necessary,” the minister said.
Reynolds explained that as a nation, more support should be given to persons that are mentally ill too, instead of locking them away. She noted there are also support systems available to persons who are finding issues in coping with life challenges. She said persons in such situations should seek assistance from the Department of Gender Relations, the Crisis Centre, the Mental Wellness Centre, and any other help centre island-wide.
“Family needs to be more present, more aware, and pay more attention to family members in need. Watch at the change in their behaviour, what is causing that and be supportive,” she advised.
Just recently a man was found hanging from a tree at Mongiraud, Gros Islet. He was identified as Vincent Collymore aka ‘Ras’, originally of Laborie, but resided at Reduit, Gros Islet.
Collymore was discovered hanging from a tree by a group of children who were playing in the bushes on September 19. According to neighbours, Collymore’s wife was heard arguing with him. Following the argument he left the house and never returned.
Relatives said Collymore did not support his wife’s decision to accept employment with a cruise ship and that might be the reason why he committed suicide. He left a note behind for his daughter which read, “Daddy loves you, but I can’t take it anymore.”