ON September 10, 2025, Guyana joined the global community in observing World Suicide Prevention Day under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” The Ministry of Health emphasised that this year’s theme challenges governments, institutions, families, and individuals to transform how suicide is discussed and addressed within society.
Guyana has made significant strides in suicide prevention and mental health care reform in recent years. A pivotal milestone came in November 2022 with the passage of the Suicide Prevention Act, which decriminalised attempted suicide. The law not only removed a legal barrier but also reduced stigma, encouraged help-seeking, and aligned the country with the 2023 Bridgetown Declaration on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health.

The Act also mandated the establishment of a National Suicide Prevention Commission, ensuring a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. This Commission brings together voices from the health, education, legal, social, religious, Indigenous, and civil society sectors, creating a collaborative and sustainable framework for suicide prevention.
In April 2024, the Government launched the National Mental Health Action Plan and Suicide Prevention Plan 2024–2030, built on six strategic pillars: Expanding suicide prevention training at all levels of healthcare, promoting mental health and suicide prevention education, restricting access to means of suicide, strengthening suicide surveillance, increasing access to services across all Regions and enhancing follow-up care for vulnerable individuals.

Several major initiatives have since followed. In May 2025, the Government launched 915 – the first 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Helpline – providing confidential crisis intervention and community mental health support. Earlier, between April and May 2024, more than 750 Gatekeepers were trained across all 10 regions to identify and respond to suicidal behaviour, in partnership with the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF) and Global Affairs Canada.

The Ministry has also embraced technology to widen access. The National Mental Health Website was launched in May 2025 in collaboration with the Office of the President and SBM Offshore. It offers information, self-help tools, service access, and community engagement under the “Kind to Your Mind” campaign. Complementing this effort, the “Mental Health Matters” animated series was introduced to raise awareness among children and adolescents.

In July, the National Suicide Surveillance System was rolled out, enabling real-time data collection to support evidence-based interventions. Meanwhile, mental health services have been extended to 81 Telemedicine Sites nationwide, as well as six modern Regional Hospitals and 15 new primary care facilities, ensuring greater access for communities, including those in remote hinterland regions.

These combined efforts are showing results. The Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) has recognised Guyana’s significant decline in suicide rates in recent years, commending the country’s integrated and compassionate approach.

As Guyana observes World Suicide Prevention Day, the Ministry of Health is calling on all citizens to continue breaking the silence surrounding mental health. “We all have a role to play in changing the narrative—by replacing silence with understanding, stigma with compassion, and punishment with care,” the Ministry urged in its statement.
Anyone experiencing a crisis is reminded that help is always available. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline – 915 operates 24/7, offering confidential support and intervention.