Gyeongsangbuk-do strengthens suicide prevention and mental health safety nets

The Gyeongsangbuk-do Provincial Council is advancing initiatives to strengthen regional safety nets for suicide prevention and mental health support.

Provincial Councilor Ma Jeong-yeon has proposed a full amendment to the 'Gyeongsangbuk-do Ordinance on Suicide Prevention and Creation of a Culture of Respect for Life.' The amendment aims to update existing laws to establish an integrated support system covering prevention, crisis response, and post-management. Key provisions include the annual establishment of suicide prevention implementation plans, the creation of a dedicated committee, and the development of an information management system to analyze suicide-related statistics. The plan also extends support to the families and bereaved of those who have died by suicide.

In a parallel effort to address student mental health, Education Committee Chair Jeong Han-seok is advocating for a community-wide response system. Recognizing that student suicide and self-harm are complex issues involving home, school, and society, Jeong has promoted 'educational governance' that connects the provincial office, education office, police, fire departments, and medical institutions. This initiative has led to the launch of the 'Student Mental Health Dapum Consultative Body,' which aims to move beyond simple detection to provide coordinated counseling, treatment, and emergency response through inter-agency cooperation.