Belize
Suicide Prevention Crisis Lines
- Primary Crisis Hotline:
- Phone Number: [Specific national suicide prevention hotline number not found]
- Hours of Operation: [Information not available]
- Additional Details: The Ministry of Health & Wellness provides mental health services across various regions in Belize. Individuals in crisis are encouraged to contact the nearest mental health facility for support.
- Emergency Line:
- Phone Number: 911
- Notes: For immediate assistance in emergencies, including mental health crises, individuals can dial 911 to reach emergency services.
Epidemiology of Suicide
Overall Statistics
- Current Suicide Rate (per 100,000 people): In 2019, Belize reported a suicide mortality rate of 7.1 per 100,000 population.
- Trend Analysis:
- Recent Data: In 2020, Belize recorded 32 deaths by suicide—9 females and 23 males—and 96 suicide attempts by 50 females and 46 males.
Demographic-Specific Insights
- By Gender:
- Male Suicide Rate: Significantly higher, with 23 out of 32 suicide deaths in 2020 being males.
- Female Suicide Rate: Lower, with 9 out of 32 suicide deaths in 2020 being females.
- By Age Groups:
- Adolescents (15-19): Between 2014 and 2016, the attempted suicide rate among adolescents aged 15-19 increased annually by 39%.
- Occupational Groups:
- Police Officers: Recent data indicates that suicide is most prevalent among men and police officers in Belize.
Suicide Prevention Innovations
National Strategies and Policies
- Overview: The Ministry of Health & Wellness has launched a National Suicide Prevention Plan to address rising suicide rates.
- Key Elements:
- Community-Based Services: Emphasis on integrating mental health services into general healthcare and providing community outreach.
- Task Shifting: Utilizing trained non-specialist health workers to deliver mental health services, enhancing accessibility.
- Decentralization: Providing mental health services across all districts to ensure equitable access.
Specific Initiatives and Campaigns
- Public Awareness Campaigns:
- World Suicide Prevention Day: Observed annually on September 10th to raise awareness and promote suicide prevention efforts.
- Programs Targeting High-Risk Groups:
- Adolescent Mental Health Programs: Initiatives aimed at addressing the increasing rates of suicide attempts among adolescents.
- Collaborative Efforts:
- Partnerships with NGOs: Collaboration with organizations like Mind Health Connect Belize to provide counseling and mental health resources.
Additional Insights
- Cultural Considerations:
- Stigma surrounding mental health may deter individuals from seeking help, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive awareness campaigns.
- Research and Data Gaps:
- Limited data on suicide rates within specific minority populations and rural areas suggests a need for more comprehensive research.
- Positive Developments:
- The implementation of the National Suicide Prevention Plan and increased focus on mental health services indicate progress in addressing suicide in Belize.
References
- Ministry of Health & Wellness. (n.d.). Mental Health. Retrieved from
- Trading Economics. (2019). Belize – Suicide Mortality Rate (per 100,000 Population). Retrieved from
- Government of Belize Press Office. (2021). MOHW Observes World Suicide Prevention Day 2021. Retrieved from
- UNICEF Belize. (n.d.). Adolescent Health. Retrieved from
- Love FM. (n.d.). Suicide Data Reveals Struggles Among Belizean Men and Police Officers. Retrieved from
- Love FM. (n.d.). Ministry of Health Launches Suicide Prevention Plan to Combat Rising Rates. Retrieved from
- Mind Health Connect Belize. (n.d.). Mental Health in Belize – Counselling Services. Retrieved from