Over 3,000 lives lost due to suicides annually

By Sheain Fernandopulle

Sri Lanka faces a stark reality as suicides emerge as the leading cause of intentional injury-related deaths, claiming over 3,000 lives each year.

This statistic was highlighted by the Ministry of Health during the National Injury Prevention Week to be observed from July 1 to July 5, 2024.

Health officials emphasised that suicides constitute a significant public health challenge, stressing the urgent need for enhanced mental health support services, community awareness programmes, and effective suicide prevention strategies to combat this alarming trend.

Meanwhile, at least 32 individuals succumb to injuries every day, with approximately 12,000 dying annually.

Over one million Sri Lankans require hospitalisation annually due to injuries, reflecting a significant health challenge that affects nearly one-fifth of the population, with millions more needing medical attention for various injury-related complications.

Health officials emphasised the critical need for enhanced safety protocols, public awareness campaigns, and improved emergency response systems to mitigate the toll of injuries on the population.