Warning: This article contains references to suicide, which some readers may find disturbing.
Eighty people committed suicide in Macao in 2022, while there were 15 cases in the third quarter, according to the Health Bureau (SS).
TDM reported that the number of suicides in 2022 is higher than 2019 when there were 66 cases and said that in 2020 the total rose to 76, however, in 2021 it dropped to 60.
The SS said that last year 80 per cent of suicides were committed by Macao local residents and add that in the last quarter of 2022 15 people committed suicide, while in the previous quarter there were only three cases.
TDM said that the SS made no reference to the fact that the pandemic situation of the last three years could be the cause of some cases, saying only that suicides are the result of serious or mental illnesses or economic or gambling-related problems.
The SS pointed out that official institutions such as the Social Welfare Bureau and private organisations such as Caritas Macau and the Macao Women’s Association are prepared to provide psychological support to those in need.
Last November, Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng said he hoped that with Macao’s economic recovery, there would be fewer cases of suicide.
If you know of somebody having thoughts about suicide, or if you are, call the Caritas-Life Hope Hotline of Macau. The English and Portuguese language service can be reached on 2852 5777 and operates from 2 pm to 11 pm Sunday to Tuesday and from 9 am to 6 pm Thursday to Saturday. It is closed on Wednesdays and Public Holidays. The Chinese language service operates 24/7 on 2852 5222. In an emergency, call 999, 110 or 112.
