VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The government has launched Malta’s first National Strategy for the Prevention of Suicide, setting out a framework to guide efforts in the sector between 2026 and 2031.
The strategy aims to strengthen prevention, early intervention and support services for people at risk of suicide. It builds on the Mental Health Strategy for Malta 2020–2030 and aligns with measures in the Malta 2050 vision, which places mental health and wellbeing as a national priority.
Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela said every suicide represents a tragedy that affects not only the individual but also families, friends and the wider community.
He stressed that preventing suicide must be a collective responsibility involving government, institutions and society. The strategy also highlights the need to increase recruitment in psychology and psychiatry services and improve awareness about available support.
Abela said the plan includes guidance on how people at risk can seek help and how public institutions, NGOs and private stakeholders can work together to communicate that support is available.
Malta already offers several crisis services, including the 24-hour psychiatric emergency service at Mater Dei Hospital and the national helpline 1579.
According to the World Health Organisation, more than 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide each year. While Malta has one of the lowest suicide rates in Europe, new figures presented in parliament show 30 suicide deaths were recorded in 2025, with most victims being men.
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