The Health and Wellness Ministry’s mental health helpline has seen an increase in calls when compared to last year.

That is according to Director of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services in the Ministry’s Mental Health Unit, Dr. Kevin Goulbourne.

Speaking with IRIE FM News, Dr. Goulbourne noted that 2,452 calls were made to the helpline as at September 29.

This, he said, represents 233 more calls to the helpline compared to the same period in 2024.

The issue of mental health has again been thrust into the spotlight amidst recent reports of suicides.

44 people have taken their lives since the start of the year.

Among them is 26-year-old accountant and beauty pageant contestant, Tyra Spaulding, who was found dead at her St. Andrew home on September 23.

Before her death, Ms. Spaulding posted several videos on YouTube, in which she expressed suicidal thoughts.

Dr. Goulbourne is urging persons to continue using the helpline, which he stresses is available to persons at any time.

He is also encouraging people to move proactively to handle stress.

Dr. Goulbourne suggests coordinating with peers and other trustworthy people to work through difficult times.