An increase in cases of suicide attempts was recorded at Mount Carmel Hospital since the Covid-19 pandemic started, a study conducted by a specialist trainee in psychiatry has noted.

The pandemic has affected many lives from different angles, and unfortunately, some face a much more difficult time than others, the study carried out by Dr Daniela Zammit shows.

The study compared the types of admissions which occurred in the first months of 2020, before the pandemic, with those of March, April and May of 2020, during which Malta experienced the first wave of the virus spread. The numbers were then compared with the same period in 2019. 

The statistics showed that there were more admissions from suicide attempts in 2020 when compared to the previous year.

Speaking to The Malta Independent on Sunday, Zammit recalled an article which she had published relating to suicide, noting that “suicide is a complex phenomenon. It is not, put simply, a mental health diagnosis – it is a human condition. Over time, mental health services have increased and there is more awareness, and yet, death by suicide still happens.”

“One cannot simplify it to assume that it is the end-point of severe depression and/or the inevitable reaction to an adverse life event. It can happen unexpectedly, taking you by surprise and makes you wonder whether you missed the signs at any point. Survivors of suicide attempts indicate that they did not necessarily want to die, but rather that it was perceived as the only way to end unbearable emotional pain,” she remarked. 

One of the common myths, she said, is that “suicide peaks around the winter holidays.”

“On the contrary, international evidence demonstrates that it tends to represent a low point of suicide rates, possibly as a result of togetherness and more family time during the festive season. There is a better chance at socializing with numerous events and activities happening around this time, giving a sense of belonging,” she said.

She also remarked that over the span of 15 years, in terms of local data, “the trend is for suicides in Malta to peak around March and August with another slight increase in December.”

In order for one to educate himself regarding suicide, one has to understand the facts relating to it.

“Various demographic factors show a higher incidence of suicidality, such as teenagers and/or middle-older age groups, being male, single/separated/divorced/widowed, socially isolated in rural areas and unemployment. An underlying mental health condition can also increase the risk, especially depression, bipolar affective disorder, psychotic disorders, certain personality disorders, substance misuse and also chronic, debilitating physical illnesses,” she said.

Apart from this, having a family history of suicidal acts, major adverse childhood events, domestic violence and an unstable family life are other predisposing factors worth mentioning.

In addition, suicidal thoughts can crop up “by triggering life events such as financial losses, relationship breakups, loss of employment, death of a family member and any other experience that is perceived as traumatic for the individual.”

How you can help

Although one cannot fully predict if a person will die by suicide, one can learn to recognise any signs so as “to try and reduce the risks as much as possible.”

“Hearing someone joking, talking about, or threatening death and/or suicide might be perceived as being nonsense; however, pay attention to the subtle signs as there may be an element of truth in it,” she said.

Asking someone directly whether he has suicidal thoughts might be uncomfortable, but it might benefit the individual, she said. “Many survivors of suicide attempts admit that if anyone had shown interest or compassion right before their act, they might not have done it. Joking or not, all suicide threats should be taken seriously.”

Zammit also remarked that people should pay attention to the content of their conversation. “Talking about feeling hopeless, being a burden, having no purpose in life, feeling trapped or in unbearable pain should make us all alert. Someone’s behavior may become increasingly anxious, restless or reckless, or they may use more drugs and/or alcohol,” she said.

“They might be complaining of lack of sleep or even spending too much time in bed. If you notice a change in someone’s personality such as becoming more withdrawn, isolated and thoughtful, reach out and talk to the person.”

Zammit said one should seek assistance if one suspects that an individual is at risk of harming themselves. “Talk calmly with the person, support them and tell them that you are concerned for their safety. Tell them that he/she should reach out for help and involve a trusted family member and ask for professional help,” she said.

“Suicide is not a sign of weakness and it isn’t about seeking attention or being selfish. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health problems or suicidal thoughts, speak up.”

Zammit said that one should call 112 if it is an emergency, whereby the Accident & Emergency Department “will have a mental health professional and medical help available 24/7.”

If one needs further support, he or she can call the Richmond helpline on 1770, Appoġġ on 179, or use the online support services www.kellimni.com.