Damyang-gun, Intensive Management During High-Risk Spring Suicide Period

Identification of High-Risk Groups, Treatment and Support Agency Information, Promotion of the Need for Mental Health Management

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Chunsu] Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do announced on the 12th that it will conduct focused suicide prevention management to address the increase in suicide rates during the spring season.

The increase in suicide rates during spring is a phenomenon commonly observed worldwide, believed to be influenced by seasonal factors such as increased daylight, pollen, and fine dust, as well as various factors including insomnia, relative deprivation, and recurrence of depression.

In particular, this year, due to prolonged COVID-19-related depression and lethargy, the need for attention to mental health and preventive management has further increased.

The county collaborates with various social service providers, utilizing personnel performing elderly customized care services to conduct depression screenings for the elderly and telephone counseling for high-risk suicide groups, aiming to identify and connect at-risk individuals to treatment.

Additionally, the county plans to intensively promote information about support organizations through its website, SNS channels, and LED billboards, as well as campaigns promoting respect for life on school routes, a mobile app Walk On walking challenge to spread a culture of love for life, posting banners and posters, and distributing promotional materials.

A county official stated, “We will continue to promote mental health improvement projects to spread a social atmosphere of respect for life, and do our best to establish an integrated mental health management system including counseling and treatment for early detection of mental illness.”