One in four people surveyed in an online poll by the Brazilian Association of Psychiatry (ABP) said they had suicidal thoughts in the six months prior to the survey. Additionally, more than half reported desires to isolate themselves completely or disappear.
The survey included adults from all age groups living in the 27 units of the Federation. The ABP’s goal was to gather information to reinforce the message of the Yellow September campaign for suicide prevention.
Preliminary data from the survey also show that 25.2% of participants said they “did not feel well” at the time of the survey, and 30.9% described themselves as sad or disappointed, but still hopeful for improvement.
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The survey also measured people’s willingness to seek help. Of the total consulted, 54.1% reported knowing where to seek specialized assistance, and 50.9% said they had been seen by a psychiatrist or psychologist at least once.
For the ABP, this indicates growing awareness of the importance of mental health care and a decrease in the stigma associated with these conditions.
Regarding care in the Unified Health System (SUS), the survey showed that 31.6% of those consulted said they would seek SUS treatment if necessary. On the other hand, 50.9% said they would seek private care, and 33.8% would consider services offered by their health plan.
If you need it, ask for help
Anyone with thoughts and feelings of wanting to end their own life should seek support from their network, such as family, friends, and educators, as well as health services. According to the Ministry of Health, it is very important to talk to someone you trust and not hesitate to ask for help, including to seek health services.
The Life Valorization Center (CVV) provides emotional support and suicide prevention, serving voluntarily and free of charge all people who want and need to talk, under total confidentiality, by phone (188), email, chat, and VoIP 24 hours a day, every day.
Health services that can be sought for care in Brazil:
• Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS)
• Basic Health Units (Family Health, Posts and Health Centers);
• UPA 24H;
• SAMU 192,
• Emergency Room;
• Hospitals;
• Life Valorization Center – 188 (free call).
Source: Agência Brasil