Psychologists play an essential role in guiding individuals through their emotional pain. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
Suicide is emerging as one of the most devastating public health crises of our time, with an alarming rise in cases, particularly among young people. This growing wave has cast a long shadow across communities worldwide, leaving families and friends grappling with an unbearable sense of loss and the haunting question: Why?
The world marked September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day, this year’s theme, “Creating Hope Through Action,” could not be more timely. It highlights the desperate need for action to counter the alarming rise in suicides and reinforces the message that prevention is possible. The day serves as a critical reminder of the steps needed to support those struggling with mental health challenges and to foster environments that encourage openness, hope, and recovery.
Suicide remains a leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29, with a staggering 77% of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Mental health issues such as depression and alcohol-related disorders are commonly associated with these tragedies.
Dr. Praxeria Swai, a psychiatric specialist at Muhimbili National Hospital in Tanzania, was quoted as saying that adolescents, particularly during puberty, face significant challenges as they navigate this turbulent stage of life. "Families often do not understand, and there's a lack of proper communication. As a result, young people are left feeling isolated and emotionally wounded," she says. The consequences of these struggles can be devastating.
The WHO reports that men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, while women are three times more likely to contemplate suicide. Men, Dr. Swai notes, tend to use more lethal methods, which increases the likelihood of death. "In our facility at Muhimbili, we are seeing a significant number of young people coming in with symptoms of depression and mental health issues," she adds.
Globally, one person dies by suicide every 40 seconds, with an estimated 800,000 deaths each year. The WHO has warned that despite these alarming figures, there is still a significant lack of conversation surrounding the issue in many communities. The organization stresses that suicide can often be prevented, especially with timely intervention and proper support systems in place.
However, societal pressures continue to exacerbate the issue. In many cases, parents place enormous expectations on their children, particularly in academic performance, without considering their capacities.
This overwhelming pressure, combined with the desire for material wealth and success, has contributed to the rising number of suicides among students. Japan, known for its rigorous educational system, is a stark example, where many students resort to suicide after failing exams, unable to cope with the shame and disappointment.
The situation is no different in Tanzania. Dr. Swai describes the case of an 18-year-old secondary school student, Diana Roman, who tragically ended her life after failing her national exams. Diana consumed a deadly insecticide in an attempt to escape the shame of her perceived failure.
Her guardian, Bibiana Roman, recalls finding Diana unconscious in her room after she had ingested the poison. "We had tried to take the poison away from her before, but she managed to find it again," says Bibiana. Despite being rushed to Tumbi Hospital, Diana did not survive.
Mental health professionals, including doctors from Milembe Hospital in Dodoma, emphasize the importance of addressing these psychological struggles early on. Many students face insurmountable pressure to succeed, both academically and socially, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness.
"We need to have psychologists present in schools, just like we have teachers," one doctor urges. "Students face various challenges, and they need the psychological support that only trained professionals can provide."
The issue extends beyond academic failure. Relationships and love also play a significant role in many suicide cases. Recently, in the Ruvuma region of Tanzania, Athuman Hassan attempted suicide after a fallout with his girlfriend, Diana Shoti. Athuman was found with a severe neck wound after using a knife in an attempt to end his life. He survived, but his story is part of a growing trend of emotional turmoil leading to suicidal behavior.
The pressure to conform to societal expectations, compounded by personal struggles, continues to push many young people to the edge. In some cases, the craving for wealth and success leads to overwhelming stress. Youth are bombarded with messages that equate material wealth with happiness, and when they fail to achieve these goals, they are left feeling defeated and hopeless. This is a dangerous cocktail that can quickly lead to drastic decisions, including suicide.
A recent study by Strategies Toward Ending the Epidemic found that 40% of suicides occur during times of crisis, such as financial difficulties, relationship breakdowns, or chronic pain. The study also highlighted that individuals in marginalized groups, such as refugees, LGBTQ+ individuals, and prisoners, are particularly vulnerable. Discrimination and social isolation often leave them with no one to turn to, increasing their risk of suicide.
One heartbreaking case in Kenya involved a first-year student at Ngara Girls’ School, who jumped from the first floor of her dormitory in an attempt to take her life. Earlier, she had asked a fellow student about how one could die by suicide.
Her tragic note revealed feelings of abandonment after her father left the family. Although the school nurse and staff rushed her to the hospital, she eventually succumbed to her injuries, leaving her peers and teachers in deep sorrow.
The gravity of these incidents cannot be overstated. Suicide and suicide attempts have a profound impact not just on the individuals involved, but on their families, friends, colleagues, and society at large.
WHO has continuously urged that prevention efforts extend beyond the individual level to include communities and national policies. The organization warns that the long-term effects of suicide ripple through emotional, social, and economic spheres, creating lasting harm that is difficult to undo.
As the world marks Suicide Prevention Day, the key message is that every life matters, and there is hope even in the darkest moments. Building hope, fostering open conversations, and providing mental health support are crucial steps in addressing the suicide crisis.
Psychologists play an essential role in guiding individuals through their emotional pain, yet there remains a significant gap in access to such professionals, particularly in educational institutions. Many argue that schools should have at least one psychologist on staff to help students cope with the emotional and psychological challenges they face.
Every suicide is a preventable tragedy, and the call for action is louder than ever. By acknowledging the issues that lead to suicide and addressing them head-on, society can move toward a future where hope replaces despair, and every life is valued.