KINGSTON, Jamaica — In light of the troubling uptick in suicides across the country, Opposition Spokesperson on Health and Wellness, Dr Alfred Dawes, is calling for a united approach to address Jamaica’s escalating mental health crisis.

In a statement on Sunday, Dr Dawes said the country has been shaken by a string of tragic losses, coming after Jamaica recorded a 23-year high in its suicide rate in 2024. He pointed to a significant increase in people reaching out for support, citing a total of 633 calls to the Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline in September 2025 alone, as well as 2,452 calls between January and September, an increase of 233 calls from the same period last year.

“These numbers represent hundreds of our brothers, sisters, friends, and neighbours who are in distress and are reaching out for help. We must ensure that no call for help goes unanswered,” stated Dr Dawes. “It is imperative that we, as a country, look out for one another. If you notice someone struggling, do not hesitate to perform a wellness check. A simple conversation can save a life.”

Dr Dawes outlined some common warning signs that someone may be contemplating suicide, including expressing feelings of hopelessness, unbearable pain, or being a burden to others; withdrawing from social interactions, family and friends; extreme mood swings, including deep depression, anxiety or uncharacteristic anger; talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves; and making arrangements or giving away prized possessions.

He also stressed the importance of destigmatising mental health issues.

“There is no shame in struggling with your mental health, the strength it takes to reach out for help is immense. We must work together to remove the stigma that prevents people from speaking out,” expressed Dawes.

He continued, “We must look out for one another. Please check on your friends, your family members, your colleagues. If you notice someone is withdrawing, expressing hopelessness or behaving out of character, reach out, have that conversation. Ask them if they are okay.”

Confidential and professional assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact 888-NEW-LIFE (888-639-5433).