Suicide Prevention Month Pushes Belizeans to Break Mental Health Stigma

As the country comes alive with the red, white, and blue spirit of our September Celebrations, the nation is also observing Suicide Prevention Month; a critical time dedicated to mental health awareness, empathy, and breaking the silence around a topic that continues to affect families nationwide.  For generations, topics surrounding mental health have been swept under the rug, particularly due to cultural expectations that encourage people to “tough it out” alone. The new message that is slowly taking hold is that reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather, a sign of courage. The Belize Family Life Association (BFLA) is on entity that is working at normalizing conversations about our emotional well-being, as explained by social worker Darby Herrera.

Several other organizations are advocating for the cause this month. Recognizing the significance of the situation. The Government of Belize through the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW), alongside local stakeholders, has rolled out several nationwide initiatives for this month. Just yesterday, a glow walk was held by the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) as one of the initiatives to raise awareness, this is among several other initiatives which will be held throughout the month of September.  Mental health professionals and community advocates point out that emotional distress and isolation can impact anyone facing economic and personal pressures. Breaking this cycle requires shifting the cultural narrative so that asking for help is viewed as a sign of strength rather than weakness. As September unfolds, a very important message that Herrera reiterates is that suicide is preventable, and no one has to walk through their darkest moments alone.

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This year’s global theme for Suicide Prevention Month is ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’.