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WATCH: Shocking Statistics Show 88% Of Maltese Suicides Are Committed By Men

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Nearly nine out of 10 suicides in Malta are committed by men, new research by the President’s Foundation for Social Wellbeing has announced. Researchers found that 88% of all suicides in Malta are undertaken by men, and have launched the ‘Be A Man – Seek Help’ campaign to draw attention to this shocking statistic.

“It is important that we encourage our men and boys to seek emotional support and to speak openly about their challenges without shame,” President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca said.

In the video launching the campaign, the Foundation wanted to battle the stereotype that men don’t cry, roping in Maltese personalities, doctors and psychologists to explain how it is normal and fine for men to seek help when they need it.

“Research shows that males between 14 and 15 years of age are finding it harder and harder to communicate between them, to share what they are feeling, to talk about what is troubling them. The emotions of men, all of a sudden, have been silenced,” said the host of the video released by the PFSW. “The majority of those who commit suicide are men.”

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In 2017, 20 of the 25 people who committed suicide were men

And in the first six months of 2018, 10 of the 12 people who committed suicide were men.

The Mental Health Commissioner, Dr John Cachia, said that research indicated that Maltese men tend to hide their emotions.

“Men must be reminded that improving their mental health and well-being will help them move forward and positively impact the lives of those around them. Constructive action is about understanding how social relationships are the key to preventing mental illness,” he said.

“Men do want to seek help, and will engage in treatment if they are given the type of help tailored to their needs. Seeking care and support should be a pathway towards empowerment rather than something shameful,” he ended.

If you feel the need to talk to someone about your mental health or someone you care for, or are looking for more information, or simply need someone to listen to you, please call 179. Alternatively, visit www.kellimni.com to get in touch online.

Is suicide a hidden issue in Malta?

READ NEXT: WATCH: Maltese Man Heroically Stops Suicide Attempt On Canadian Subway Tracks

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Johnathan is an award-winning Maltese journalist interested in social justice, politics, minority issues, music and food. Follow him at @supreofficialmt on Instagram, and send him news, food and music stories at [email protected]

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