RESPECTED psychotherapist and philanthropist Vassell O’Gilvie is calling for a coordinated public health response on the prevention of suicide.

Locally, there has been an increase in suicide cases, and this is of concern to O’Gilvie.

“My heightened concern about suicide in Jamaica began after the death of Tyra Spaulding, a Miss Universe Jamaica contestant, in September 2025. Her social media posts reflected deep sadness, helplessness, and emotional overwhelm. There was no indication that she sought professional mental health support. Her statement, ‘my mind is trying to kill me’, was a clear cry for help. Her death prompted me to examine national data and the broader factors contributing to suicidality in Jamaica,” O’Gilvie explained.

“In my private practice as a psychotherapist, I work with clients at varying intersections of mental health challenges, emotional crises, and the complex realities that lead individuals to contemplate ending their lives. In my practice, I work with clients experiencing varying levels of depression and suicidality. Suicidality exists on a continuum ranging from mild thoughts to severe intent, and evidence based research identifies ten levels along this spectrum — from non-suicidal to complete suicide. Effective treatment requires careful assessment of where a client falls in this continuum and the use of evidence based interventions.”

O’Gilvie shared that there has been instances where he has tried to ensure the safety of some of his clients and he had to refer them to suicide hotlines and emergency services.

“These decisions are never easy, as clients often feel betrayed. However, ensuring their safety must always take precedence,” he said.

O’Gilvie has more than 15 years of experience in psychotherapy, with a focused role in treating mental health concerns including suicidality.

“Globally, suicide is trending upward. The World Health Organization reported that in 2021, suicide was the third leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29. More than 720,000 people die by suicide each year. Many more attempt suicide, though these numbers are often underreported,” O’Gilvie shared, while noting the statistics locally.

“In Jamaica, data published by the Jamaica Constabulary Force on September 28, 2025, shows a steady increase in suicide deaths over the past six years. In July 2025, suicides had increased by 33 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. August and September also showed increases of 20 per cent and 25 per cent respectively. Even one suicide is too many, making these trends deeply concerning.”

Psychotherapist Vassell O’Gilvie

O’Gilvie highlighted some factors which he says contribute to people committing suicide.

“Suicide is multifaceted. Common contributing factors include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions. Additionally, stress related issues include job loss, relationship breakdowns, or feelings of abandonment, social isolation or ostracisation, financial strain, chronic pain or incurable illnesses, substance abuse and alcoholism. If there is a history of suicide within the family, this too could be a cause, as well as access to lethal means such as firearms or toxic substances. These factors can distort thinking, increase hopelessness, and impair a person’s ability to cope,” O’Gilvie reasoned.

He also spoke about the impact of suicide on the health sector, families and communities.

“Mental illness remains heavily stigmatised. Stigma involves negative attitudes, beliefs and stereotypes that discourage individuals from seeking help. This stigma delays treatment, worsens symptoms, and sometimes leads individuals to discontinue care to avoid being labelled. And additionally, many suicides occur impulsively during moments of crisis when individuals feel overwhelmed by stressors. Vulnerable groups — including migrants, refugees, indigenous peoples, LGBTI individuals, and prisoners — face higher risk due to discrimination and marginalisation. If Jamaica does not address the taboo surrounding mental illness, the cycle of silence will continue. Mental illness must be viewed like any other health condition requiring treatment. Community education is essential to shift attitudes and improve prevention,” said O’Gilvie.

O’Gilvie has issued a call for the need for a public health response.

“Suicide is a serious public health issue requiring a coordinated national strategy. Governments must prioritise access to mental health treatment and invest in community based, low cost interventions, especially in resource limited settings. A comprehensive, multi sectoral suicide prevention strategy is essential for meaningful progress.