Persons who face mental health challenges and are contemplating suicide, are being encouraged to seek help.

The reminder comes in the wake of recent incidents including 2 persons, who reportedly took their own lives in St. Elizabeth.

The Health Ministry said its suicide prevention help line is active, and agents are ready and able to provide the necessary psychological support, to those who need it.

The ‘Speak Up Now’ help line is, 888 new life, that is, 888 639 5433.

Clinical psychologist for the North East Regional Health Authority, Dr. Pernell Bell, said another awareness campaign will be rolled out soon, to highlight the aid services offered.

Dr. Bell noted that many persons who have mental health challenges, especially depression, need a problem to end, not their lives.

She highlighted that hundreds of persons have already received help from counsellors.

She said that in addition to the help line, persons may go to clinics, health centres, and other public health facilities, to request help.

She said officials are aware of the protocols to activate, in response to a mental health issue.