BY NYASHA Ngara
Suicide is a topic that often evokes discomfort, sadness, and a myriad of emotions that many find difficult to confront. In many African societies, including Zimbabwe, suicide is shrouded in stigma, fear, and silence. The mere mention of it can evoke strong reactions, often leading to whispered conversations, judgment, and, unfortunately, further isolation of those struggling with suicidal thoughts. However, as the theme for awareness suggests, it is time to change the narrative on suicide – to start the conversation and move toward understanding, support, and ultimately, prevention. Suicide is not just an individual tragedy; it is a public health crisis that impacts families, communities, and entire nations. In Zimbabwe and across Africa, the need to address suicide has never been more urgent. In a most recent case, a form one pupil at Zimuto High School committed suicide on school’s opening eve, leaving a suicide note for her family. Such families are left searching for answers, trying to understand why their loved ones would take away their lives, news like this leaves families and friends grappling with the loss. It’s time we change that narrative, encouraging open discussions about mental health, understanding the complexities surrounding suicide, and promoting prevention strategies. By fostering an empathetic and supportive environment, we can help those in need feel seen, heard, and valued.
Suicide is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 700,000 people die by suicide each year. That equates to one person every 40 seconds. Suicide rates are alarmingly high in Africa. Six of the 10 countries with the highest suicide rates in the world are located on the continent. According to WHO data, the suicide rate in the African region is estimated at 11.2 per 100,000 people, higher than the global average of 9.0 per 100,000 people. Like many African countries, Zimbabwe is not immune to this crisis. The country has seen an alarming increase in suicides in recent years. Mpilo Central Hospital witnessed a startling surge in suicide attempts, particularly among individuals under
the age of 30. According to hospital records, there has been a staggering 245 percent increase in suicide attempts, with 38 cases reported in the first two months of this year alone, a significant rise from the 11 cases recorded during the same period in 2023. Other statistics show that Zimbabwe has the highest youth suicide rate among 11 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, according to a study by the Regional Psycho-social Support Initiative (REPSSI). This distressing trend not only highlights the immediate need for intervention but also brings to the forefront a larger issue prevailing in Zimbabwe.
These statistics are alarming as many suicides and suicide attempts go unreported due to stigma and fear. Zimbabwe’s suicide demographics show some worrying trends. Men commit suicide more often than women. The suicide rate among men is approximately three times higher than that among women. The most affected age group is young people aged 15 to 29 years. This highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions for this population. However, it is important to recognise that suicide affects people of all ages, genders and socio-economic backgrounds.
Suicide is often seen as an act of hopelessness, but it’s vital to recognize that it doesn’t stem from a singular cause. It’s the culmination of overwhelming emotional pain, often combined with untreated mental health issues, life stressors, and a sense of isolation. When people feel trapped in their despair, unable to see a way out, suicide can appear as the only escape. This tragic outcome reflects the depth of their suffering, not a lack of will or a failure on their part. Abusive, fractured family and romantic relationships, economic frustrations, stigmatisation, loneliness, drug abuse, mental health issues and the pressure to conform (social and cultural pressures) are some of the causes of suicide in Zimbabwe. However, silence and its consequences are one of the biggest barriers to suicide prevention in Zimbabwe and many parts of Africa is the cultural stigma surrounding the issue. Suicide is often taboo and associated with shame, stigma and guilt. In many communities, people who die by suicide are considered morally flawed and their families are often ostracized or subjected to social condemnation. This stigma not only prevents people from talking openly about suicide, but also prevents affected people from seeking help when they need it most. The silence around suicide can have devastating consequences. When people feel unable to talk about their problems or ask for help, they are more likely to suffer in isolation, increasing their risk of suicide. Moreover, the lack of conversation means that many people do not recognise the signs of suicidal behaviour and do not know how to intervene effectively. As a result, opportunities to provide help and prevent suicide are often missed.
Changing the Narrative: From Stigma to Support
For too long, the conversation around suicide has been wrapped in silence and clouded by stigma. Words like “committed suicide” carry a harsh connotation, suggesting crime or guilt, which only adds to the isolation of those who are struggling. It’s time to change the way we speak about suicide – our language, our tone, and our approach. By opening up the conversation with compassion and understanding, we take the first step toward creating a world where those in pain feel safe enough to reach out for help. Suicide doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s not a simple “choice” someone makes but often a response to feeling unbearably overwhelmed – by emotions, circumstances, or a sense of hopelessness that feels all-consuming. When we recognize this, we can stop judging and start offering what’s needed most: empathy. The people at risk of suicide are not lost causes – they are individuals facing intense struggles who need our understanding and support, not our silence or condemnation.
We must replace silence and judgment with understanding and support. It starts by creating a culture where people feel safe discussing their struggles, free from stigma. Public education is key – accurate information about mental health and suicide can dispel myths and foster empathy. Encouraging open conversations, whether at home, school, or in the workplace, helps normalize discussions about mental health and reduce the fear of judgment. Equally important is providing support for those affected by suicide, whether through counseling, hotlines, or simply offering a compassionate ear. Through these efforts, we can create a world where no one feels alone in their pain. Compassion is one of the most powerful tools we have in preventing suicide. It’s normal to feel unsure or helpless when someone you care about is struggling with suicidal thoughts, but your presence – offering a listening ear, a kind word, or simply letting them know you’re there – can make an incredible difference. Sometimes, just showing someone that their life matters to you can be the light they need in their darkest moments. But compassion goes deeper than just being there. It means validating their pain and helping them feel understood. It’s important to encourage them to seek professional help, but equally important is continuing to offer your own support. Sometimes, knowing someone is there – truly there – can be life-saving.
Often, the warning signs of suicide can be subtle, but they are there if we know what to look for. These signs might include drastic mood changes, withdrawing from loved ones, talking about feeling trapped or hopeless, or sudden, unexpected changes in behavior. If you notice these signs in someone, don’t wait. Reach out and let them know you’re there for them. It may feel awkward or uncomfortable to ask someone directly if they’re thinking about suicide, but this conversation can be life-saving. Contrary to what many believe, asking about suicide doesn’t encourage someone to act on it. In fact, it can break through the isolation and silence they’re feeling, opening up a path toward honest dialogue and, ultimately, hope. Suicide prevention isn’t something any one person can tackle alone. It’s about building a culture where mental health is openly discussed, where people feel safe asking for help, and where resources are accessible to everyone. Communities can play a pivotal role by creating supportive
environments, promoting mental health education, and ensuring that those in crisis know where to turn. Ultimately, preventing suicide is a collective responsibility. It’s about showing up for one another, speaking out against stigma, and ensuring that no one has to suffer in silence..
A Call to Action, One Step at a Time
As we reflect on the heartbreaking realities of suicide, it’s clear that change begins with each of us. Shifting the narrative from one of stigma and silence to one of compassion, understanding, and open dialogue is not just an option – it’s a necessity. Let us all commit to taking small but meaningful steps. Start a conversation, listen without judgment, offer support to someone in need, and most importantly, educate yourself and others about mental health. As Winston Churchill once said, “If you’re going through hell, keep going.” For those struggling, let them know they don’t have to go through it alone. World Mental Health Day on October 10th reminds us that this journey doesn’t end with September. In fact, it’s a year-round mission to create a more empathetic world. Every action, no matter how small, makes a difference. Together, we can build a future where mental health is prioritized, where people feel safe asking for help, and where no one feels isolated in their pain.
Let’s change the narrative, one conversation at a time.
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