In the first seven weeks of 2009, 14 cases of suicide and 14 cases of attempted suicide have been reported.

These figures have been confirmed by the Health Ministry who say this is a worrying trend.

Spokesperson Iliesa Tora said most of these cases were recorded in the 16 year to 25 year age bracket.

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Tora said a meeting was held with the National Committee on the Prevention of Suicide on the figures, and it was decided that it is important that stakeholders work together, to help reduce these figures by offering counseling services and implementing follow up programs on those who have attempted suicide, so that they can change their self image thus turning away from the notion that they need to take their own lives.