Regional health initiatives launch to combat suicide and mental health stigma

Regional health organizations in French territories are launching initiatives to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding suicide during the ‘Septembre jaune’ (Yellow September) campaign.

In French Polynesia, the municipality of Faa’a is partnering with SOS Suicide to host workshops, debates, and conferences starting September 8. The initiative aims to support vulnerable populations, particularly youth, following a period where Faa’a reported 30 suicide attempts, including seven fatalities. SOS Suicide president Pitu Ateni noted an increasing number of requests for help from students and young adults.

In Réunion, the Association Prévention Suicide (APS) is organizing a conference-debate in Le Tampon on September 10. The event will feature Professor Doray Bérénice, who will discuss how epigenetics and past traumas impact mental health. This follows data from 2023 showing 83 recorded suicides in Réunion, with a notable increase in the death rate among men.