Neurologist urges public to understand depression to prevent suicide
By Mariesh F. Celedeña
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) —Butuan City Health Office neurologist-psychiatrist Doctor Bernardo L. Conde has said that the main problem is not suicide itself, but the underlying concern on mental illness such as depression.
He shared that suicide is a reflection of an individuals depression.
During the Kapihan sa PIA on Sept. 22, Doctor Conde, also serving as consultant of the Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga, shared that in his experience after visiting all 86 barangays in Butuan City, committing suicide is common in teenagers who suffered from depression due to various reasons.
He called the public to rather than focus on the numbers of suicide, focus on the cause of depression.
“Instead of focusing solely on the number of suicide deaths, greater attention must be given to understanding and addressing the root causes of depression, especially that most individuals involved in suicide cases are teenagers,” the medical practitioner said.
He emphasized the importance of having a support system, especially the family. “The first people who should know that an individual is having unusual thoughts, such as suicidal ideation, are the family members. That’s why having a strong support system from the family is very important for mental health.”
He also discussed the different symptoms of depression that family members should pay attention to such as lack of interest to perform activities and join family meals, and a feeling of worthlessness. “If they exhibit these symptoms they should seek professional help and always pay attention to them.”
DOH-CHD Caraga continuously conducts information drives in the communities and rural health centers (RHU), promoting mental resilience in the community.
In addition, the agency has manifested strong commitment to lessen the suicide cases in the region conducts visitation, trainings, and promotes the 24-hour National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline numbers at 1553/ 1800-1888-1553/ 0919-057-1553/ 0917-899-8727.
Maryfe N. Rosales, health program researcher of DOH-CHD Caraga shared that the NCMH provides immediate and accessible mental health support to individuals experiencing psychological distress, emotional crisis, or suicidal thoughts.
Based on the data provided by the Philippine national Police (PNP) to DOH-CHD Caraga, a total of 129 suicide cases were recorded in the region for the year 2024, and from January to March of the current year, it has recorded a total 29 suicide cases. (MFC, PIA Caraga)
