Suicide prevention was on the agenda of today’s cabinet meeting.
Governor Lolo Moliga noted that there have been three or four recent suicides involving young people and its important for the public to know that there are government services in this area.
He told Director of Health, Motusa Tuileama Nua ,that suicide prevention program should not be short lived but should be continuous.
Motusa in his briefing said that in response to the recent suicides DOH called an emergency meeting with LBJ Hospital, Human and Social Services, Protection and Advocacy for the Disabled and DOE.
A 24 hour suicide prevention hotline has been established. The number is 220. Suicide prevention activities for the next six months have also been drawn up and this started with an awareness wave last Friday.
“If all else fails , dial 911 and the call will be forwarded to the suicide prevention hotline,” advised the DOH Director.
Director of Education Dr. Ruth Matagi Tofiga said that sports is a good avenue for the youth to let out steam. DOE is allowing the use of school gymnasiums for early morning or after school sports or exercise activities. She also welcomes training for school principals and faculty on suicide prevention.
ASCC President Dr Rosevonne Pato said the college has a suicide prevention task fore called YANA -You are Not Alone.
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