259 self-harm incidents recorded from 2023 to 2024; most of which classified as suicide attemps - Baguio General Hospital

Baguio City, Philippines - Having recorded a high number of self-harm cases, the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) enhances its mental health awareness and suicide prevention measures.

BGHMC Department of Psychiatry Medical Officer III Dr. Katrina Camille Corpuz, during a Kapehan forum in Baguio recently, revealed that they documented 259 self-harm incidents between 2023 and 2024, most of which were classified as suicide attempts.

Suicide, based on the latest report of the World Health Organization (WHO), ranks as the third leading cause of death worldwide, with most of the victims aged 15-29. In the country, suicide cases rose 57% in 2020, from 2,810 in 2019 to 4,420, said Corpuz in her talk.

Health professionals, based on their findings, say suicide is a complex issue influenced by both personal and systemic challenges being faced by an individual.

To help combat the problem in line with the observance of Suicide Prevention Month, Corpuz said the BGHMC is enhancing its mental health literacy by promoting awareness and understanding of mental health issues among the public.

The health institution is also expanding access to professional care within the hospital through partnerships and community support networks, encouraging community involvement and support systems that provide emotional and practical assistance to individuals at risk.

Further, local media outlets are urged by the hospital to promote responsible reporting practices, such as not using sensitive language like “died by suicide.”

The medical officer added that people should seek help they are experiencing mental problems or depression, emphasizing that the process is a vital step toward healing and resilience, not a sign of weakness.