During the 2024–2025 biennium, PAHO supported Suriname in advancing the prevention of suicide and self‑harm through strengthened national leadership, system capacity, and expanded access to mental health and psychosocial support. High‑level commitment from the Ministry of Health provided a strong governance foundation aligned with implementation of the global LIVE LIFE approach. With PAHO technical support, national capacity was strengthened through targeted training of primary health care (PHC) providers using the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP)‑based assessment, management, and referral protocols, thereby improving the quality and consistency of care for people at risk. Complementary capacity-building for media professionals on responsible reporting of suicide contributed to creating a more enabling environment for prevention and help‑seeking.

Access to services was further expanded through PAHO support for the operationalization of the national mental health helpline, including the provision of essential equipment to ensure continuity and responsiveness. Evidence‑based prevention was reinforced through the development of a geographic pesticide profile to inform the phased withdrawal of paraquat, addressing access to highly lethal means. In parallel, PAHO‑supported stakeholder consultations informed the development of a national strategic plan for mental health and suicide prevention, strengthening policy coherence, sustainability, and multisectoral coordination.

Together, these results enhanced leadership, service delivery capacity, and access to care, contributing to a more comprehensive and resilient national response to suicide prevention and improved mental health outcomes.
 

Photo caption: mhGAP training for social and community workers in the Nickerie district.

Credit: PAHO