- The NGO pointed out that this fact is related to the depression and anxiety that arose as a result of the covid-19 pandemic | Photo: Unsplash
Abel Saraiba, deputy coordinator of the Community Learning Centers (Cecodap), indicated that although they do not have official data on suicide rates in Venezuela, there has been an “increase” in suicide intentions following the Covid-19 pandemic.
“In the case of Venezuela, what we can say is that the intention to do so is something that has been increasing over time, especially after the pandemic,” the psychologist said in an interview for Union Radio on Wednesday, September 11th.
The increase in these cases, Saraiba explained, is due to the appearance of episodes of depression and anxiety following the pandemic.
As for global statistics, the psychologist indicated that suicide is one of the top five causes of death in the population under 30 years of age.
A reality that also affects teenagers
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Saraiba warned that this situation not only affects adults, but also children and adolescents in the country.
“Adolescent girls in Venezuela are up to three times more at risk than adolescent boys. Not because they don’t think about it or aren’t vulnerable, but there are other forms of violence such as sexual violence, systems of exclusion, and emotional responsibility on adolescent girls that are under greater pressure today,” she added.
However, Saraiba indicated that, according to global statistics, those who most often commit this act are men.
“Paradoxically, those who do it the most are men. This has to do with culture: access to firearms, exposure to risky behavior, among others,” Saraiba explained.
According to the psychologist, out of every 10 children who show some type of suicidal inclination, approximately 6 of these are linked to discrimination.
“The highest risk is present in the LGBTIQ+ population because we understand that there they face issues of discrimination and difficulty in being accepted by their family,” he explained.
Free support from Cecodap
Cecodap reported that it has a free psychological support service for children and adolescents. The NGO’s contact number is 0424-284-2359.
Causes of suicide in Venezuelan adolescents
Abel Saraiba pointed out that migration can be a factor that can influence this type of act.
“The impact of migration in the country is an issue that affects us. We are talking about 7 million people who have left; we estimate that there may be close to a million children affected by the migration of their parents,” he added.
The psychologist indicated that other factors are bullying, sexual violence and domestic violence.
“These are always factors that will deteriorate the mental health of children and adolescents, combined with traditional parenting practices based on violence. Children and adolescents get depressed just as much as adults,” she recalled.
Saraiba urged adults to address childhood depression as it can “affect children’s futures.” She also called for ensuring that family and school environments are safe.
Statistics in Venezuela
In September 2024, the Venezuelan Observatory of Violence (OVV) reported in a report that During the year 2023, 2,358 deaths by suicide were recorded in VenezuelaThis figure translates into 8.2 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants.
The non-governmental organization (NGO) reported that there was a 6.5% increase compared to 2022, when 2,173 suicides were recorded. Although there is specific data for states such as Mérida, Zulia or Lara, the NGO does not yet have a report for the entire country in 2024.
However, it is still far from the peak levels reached in 2018, when the suicide rate averaged 9.3. This is in the midst of a complex humanitarian emergency, which the organization linked to a greater deterioration in the mental health of Venezuelans.
In terms of geographical distribution, Mérida remains the state with the highest local rate, at 15.5. The OVV indicated that suicide figures increased in 17 entities and decreased in another seven. Delta Amacuro, Sucre, Nueva Esparta and Amazonas are the states that registered the sharpest increase. Distrito Capital occupies third place in the table (13.3), while Táchira is in second (13.6).
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#Cecodap #warned #increase #suicide #intentions
2024-09-12 05:51:11
What factors are contributing to the rising suicide rates among Venezuelan youth during the economic and pandemic crises?
The Alarming Rise of Suicide in Venezuela: A Crisis Amidst Economic and Pandemic Woes
Venezuela, a country already grappling with an economic crisis, has seen a disturbing surge in suicide rates, particularly among its youth and young adults. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the situation, leaving many to wonder if the country is facing a mental health crisis.
Suicide Rates in Venezuela: A Growing Concern
According to the World Bank, Venezuela’s suicide mortality rate per 100,000 population was reported at 2.1% in 2019 [[1]]. However, more recent reports suggest that the rate has increased significantly. Between 2015 and 2018, the suicide rate rose from 3.8 to 9.3 per 100,000 inhabitants, with men aged 30-64 and youths aged 15-24 being the most at risk [[2]].
The Pandemic’s Role in Rising Suicide Rates
Abel Saraiba, deputy coordinator of the Community Learning Centers (Cecodap), attributes the increase in suicide intentions to the depression and anxiety that have arisen as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. “In the case of Venezuela, what we can say is that the intention to do so is something that has been increasing over time, especially after the pandemic,” Saraiba said in an interview.
Adolescents and Suicide: A Vulnerable Population
The situation is particularly dire for adolescents in Venezuela. According to Saraiba, adolescent girls are up to three times more at risk than adolescent boys, due to factors such as sexual violence, systems of exclusion, and emotional responsibility. Moreover, out of every 10 children who show some type of suicidal inclination, approximately 6 are linked to discrimination, with the LGBTIQ+ population facing the highest risk.
Causes of Suicide in Venezuelan Adolescents
Migration is another factor contributing to the rise in suicide rates among Venezuelan adolescents. With an estimated 7 million people having left the country, Saraiba notes that there may be close to a million children affected by the migration of their parents.
A Cry for Help: Free Support Services
In response to this crisis, Cecodap has established a free psychological support service for children and adolescents. The NGO’s contact number is 0424-284-2359.
Conclusion
The alarming rise in suicide rates in Venezuela, particularly among its youth and young adults, is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. The economic crisis and COVID-19 pandemic have created a perfect storm of anxiety, depression, and desperation, which must be addressed through targeted support services and initiatives. It is imperative that the Venezuelan government, NGOs, and civil society come together to provide a safety net for those struggling with suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
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