FAMILY SUPPORT ESSENTIAL FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION

BANJA LUKA, SEPTEMBER 9 /SRNA/ - The number of suicides in Republika Srpska has been declining over the past six years, from 218 cases in 2020 to 89 cases recorded during the first seven months of this year.

A total of 131 suicides were recorded in Republika Srpska last year, 140 in 2024 and 175 in 2023, the Republika Srpska Ministry of Internal Affairs told SRNA.

In 2022, 197 suicides were registered, while 213 were recorded in 2021.

Sociologist Jadranka Berić told SRNA, ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day which is observed tomorrow, that this trend is encouraging, but that every life lost remains a painful reminder that prevention must be continuous and comprehensive.

Berić pointed out that it is everyone's shared responsibility to build a culture of trust, closeness and the nurturing of traditional values.

"From a sociological standpoint, suicide is a social phenomenon that reveals how connected an individual is to the community and how much they feel they have support. Economic insecurity, unemployment and a sense of hopelessness often lead to despair. Aging and chronic illnesses increase the risk among older people, while family conflicts and the weakening of traditional ties leave people without support," Berić stressed.

She noted that one of the most dangerous factors is alienation and the feeling that a person is not part of the community, that they are alone in their silence.

"In addition, dependence on alcohol, drugs, digital content and gambling intensifies feelings of hopelessness and isolation. Mental illnesses, depression, anxiety and various disorders remain among the greatest risk factors, particularly when they are not recognized in time," Berić warned.

She pointed to the importance of nurturing traditional values as a form of prevention.

Family, neighborly relations, working together and solidarity - all of these, Berić stressed, are foundations that can alleviate feelings of loneliness and alienation.

She said prevention must be compassionate and focused on the individual, while public campaigns should break down stigma and encourage people to talk about their problems.

According to her, family support is irreplaceable.

"Those closest to a person must recognize warning signs such as withdrawal, loss of interest or statements expressing hopelessness," Berić said.

She stressed that the healthcare system must be accessible to everyone, with stronger psychological and psychiatric services, while social solidarity through local communities, associations and religious institutions can restore a sense of belonging and closeness.

World Suicide Prevention Day has been observed since 2003.