News Writer
Suicide is a grave tragedy that impacts families, neighborhoods, and even entire nations.
The causes are multifaceted, with the main contributors including low self-esteem, despair, and family issues. Substance abuse, alcohol, and narcotics can also play a role in triggering suicidal behavior.
Conflicts, tragedies, violence, abuse, loss, and feelings of solitude are all linked to suicidal tendencies.
For teenagers, academic pressure, unsuccessful personal relationships, and family difficulties such as divorce are the primary causes.
Globally, suicide rates are significantly higher in men than in women.
According to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Prevention and Management of Mental Health Conditions in Zimbabwe Report of 2022, 1.8% of all deaths in Zimbabwe are attributed to suicide, with men contributing a higher rate than women.
Suicide accounts for at least 700,000 deaths worldwide annually, according to WHO, with the actual number likely much higher due to under-recording.In Zimbabwe, the situation is particularly concerning.
The country’s suicide rate in 2019 was 14.10 per 100,000, marking an increase of 0.71% from the previous year.
This statistic places Zimbabwe among the countries with the highest suicide rates globally.
“This high figure suggests we may not be doing enough to address the issue,” said an expert on mental health Bothwell Chinyangsre.
“When these occurrences happen, the victims are often blamed, which raises questions such as, ‘Why didn’t they speak up?’ and ‘To whom do we speak?'”
The pervasive belief that “boys do not cry” also contributes to the widespread issue. Although girls may attempt suicide more frequently, boys die by suicide much more often due to using more lethal methods. In 2012, data revealed 389 men and 69 women died by suicide.
“This tells us that urgent action is needed to address this crisis,” the expert added.
Warning signs of suicidal behavior include excessive crying, sleeping too much or too little, and abnormal eating habits.
Friends and family can play a crucial role in preventing suicide, and professional assistance is not always required.
“Raising community awareness and breaking down taboos is essential if nations want to make progress in reducing suicide,” stated another mental health advocate.
“The stigma surrounding suicide often prevents it from being recognized as a serious public health issue, and there has not been enough focus on prevention.”
By prioritizing education and awareness, we can work toward reducing the impact of this societal and health crisis.