Country Profile
Guyana
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Are You In A Crisis Right Now?
Guyana
Is Suicide Decriminalised?
Has the country decriminalised suicide, with clear legal frameworks and policy positions?
Yes
Are Crisis Lines Available?
Is free, confidential support from a helpline or hotline available? Status provided by find a helpline.
No
National Suicide Prevention Strategy?
Is there a national suicide prevention strategy, such as from the WHO, and does include decriminalisation, if known?
Yes
Population in Need of Support Per Year
Based on the WHO likely attempted suicide rate.
As a calculation of population size against suicide rate
Strength Of Support (Local Qualitative Assessment)
Population
Suicide Rate Per 100K Per Year, all Sexes (SDG 3.4.2)
per 100,000
WHO 2019 for SDG 3.4.2. Global average 1 per 100,000
Suicide Deaths Per Year (By Population)
per annum
As a calculation of population size against suicide rate
In November 2022, Guyana, officially the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, took a significant step in addressing its longstanding issue of high suicide rates by enacting the comprehensive Suicide Prevention Bill. This legislation marked the decriminalisation of suicide and represented a significant move towards improving mental health care nationwide.
"This bill contemplates that if people need help, that we will be able to respond very quickly and send a team out to that person, or those persons who need help."
- Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony
The legislation recognised that suicide is not a crime but an appeal for help, reflecting a modern, compassionate approach to mental health care. The subsequent establishment of a National Suicide Prevention Commission and related initiatives marked a significant commitment to reducing suicides and improving the mental well-being of Guyanese citizens. This case study underscores the importance of progressive legislation and mental health advocacy in creating positive change within society.
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