Muscat – Mental health experts and community leaders have called for continued compassion and vigilance to sustain Oman’s remarkable progress in reducing suicide rates – a milestone that has drawn attention for its social and public health significance.

According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health (MoH), suicide cases dropped from 2.1 per 100,000 people in 2023 to just 0.1 in 2024 – the lowest recorded in recent years. Officials attribute this achievement to joint efforts between government agencies, the private sector and communities, along with expanded mental healthcare and awareness programmes across the sultanate.

A senior MoH official told Muscat Daily that the decrease reflects the success of Oman’s integrated approach to mental health. “Specialised services are now available across more wilayats and governorates,” the official said. “Individuals with mental and behavioural disorders now receive comprehensive care – including psychological support and rehabilitation to ensure long-term stability and recovery.”

The official added that mental health education has become an integral part of school curricula, recognising that families and schools form the first line of defence against emotional distress and self-harm. “Strong family communication and community bonds are vital to protecting mental wellbeing. That’s why our programmes target schoolchildren to embed awareness from an early age,” the official noted.

Community leaders have welcomed the drop in suicide numbers as a reflection of growing social cohesion and awareness.

Sheikh Ibrahim al Ramli, an imam in Muscat, said the achievement underscores the role of faith and family in promoting resilience. “Islam places great emphasis on patience, prayer and community support during hardship,” he said. “Families and mosques must continue to offer compassion, guidance and a safe space for young people who may be struggling.”

He urged parents to engage meaningfully with their children and encourage positive activities such as art, sports and volunteering. “These acts nurture confidence and emotional strength,” he added.

Mental health professionals have stressed the importance of early detection, empathy and timely intervention in suicide prevention.

Nourhan Sakhsoukh, a psychologist at Whispers of Serenity Clinic, said suicide remains one of the most complex and urgent global health issues, often driven by overlapping psychological, social and economic pressures.

“It’s rarely caused by one factor alone,” she explained. “Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family breakdown or prolonged stress can all erode a person’s ability to cope.”

Nourhan added that effective prevention depends on early detection, access to treatment and strong social support. “Community-based care centres, timely counselling and restricting access to means of self-harm all play a crucial role.” 

She noted that parents and teachers should watch for warning signs such as withdrawal, sudden loss of interest or frequent talk about death. “Listening without judgment, showing empathy and encouraging professional help can save lives,” she said.

Experts agree that Oman’s progress is encouraging, but sustaining it will require ongoing collaboration. They recommend that schools expand counselling services, communities strengthen hotline support, and civil society groups partner with healthcare institutions to widen the safety net.

“People showing suicidal tendencies must never be left alone or stigmatised,” Nourhan stressed. “Compassion, timely help and open dialogue can turn a moment of despair into a turning point.”