Suicide cases climb 15.8 per cent, men hardest hit

Jamaica has recorded a notable 15.8 per cent increase in reported suicide cases through September 7 of this year, compared to the corresponding period in 2025. Data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Information and Statistics Management Division reveal that there were 44 suicide cases over the review period compared with 38 cases during the same time frame last year. However, it was 12 per cent less than the 50 suicide cases reported over the period in 2024.

The latest figures came as the world observed World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, with a focus on raising awareness and strengthening efforts to prevent suicide. Notably, there has been a significant gender disparity in the suicides recorded so far this year. Of the 44 reported cases, 39 were males, and five were females.

Men aged 21 to 30 accounted for the highest number of suicide cases, with seven, followed by those aged 11 to 20, 31 to 40 and 61 to 70, which recorded six cases each. Meanwhile, St James recorded the highest number of suicide cases, with seven, followed by St Mary with five and St Catherine South with four. The data also revealed that one member of the JCF was among the suicide cases.

The JCF noted that the case involved a male member aged 21 to 30, and was recorded in the St James Police Division. According to the JCF, no suicide cases were reported among JCF members in 2024 and 2025. Psychologist Dr Leahcim Semaj, reacting to the latest JCF data, says the gender disparity in suicide cases is linked to how men are socialised from an early age to suppress their emotions.

“From the very beginning, the way we raised boys…so big man don't cry,” Dr Semaj said. Additionally, Semaj believes that more women attempt suicide than men; however, he noted, that more men are successful because they use more violent methods to commit the act. “So that's why the figures tend to be so lopsided.

Most of the time, they cry for help, and they take all the pills. But then they leave the bottle right next to the bed. “Oftentimes they call everybody on their contact list and tell them what they just did.