The Federal Executive Council approved an amendment to the National Mental Health Act to decriminalise attempted suicide, a move described as long overdue. The decision shifts the approach from punishment to care, protection and support, recognising attempted suicide as a public health issue rather than a criminal one. Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, stated that the existing provisions in the Criminal Code Act and Penal Code do more harm than good. The amendment follows years of advocacy by health professionals, families and mental health advocates.
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