The raise in youth suicide cases across Africa

Youth suicide is an increasingly alarming issue across Africa, and one that is often not given enough attention. Suicide is a preventable cause of death, and it is crucial that we take action to prevent it. In this article, we will look at the rise in youth suicide cases across Africa, with specific examples from Malawi, and discuss possible solutions to this problem.

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-29 year-olds globally, and the number of suicide cases among this age group has been increasing in many countries over the past few decades. In Africa, suicide is also a growing problem, particularly among young people.

In Malawi, for example, suicide rates have increased significantly over the past few years. In 2018, the Ministry of Health reported that suicide was the third leading cause of death among young people in the country. The most common methods of suicide among young people in Malawi were hanging and poisoning. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, and mental health issues have been identified as contributing factors to the rise in suicide cases.

Similar trends have been observed in other African countries as well. In Nigeria, suicide rates among young people have also been increasing, with the majority of cases being reported in urban areas. In South Africa, suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people, and the rate of suicide among adolescents has increased by 28% over the past decade.

So, what can be done to address this problem? Here are some possible solutions:

1. Increase awareness: One of the most important steps in preventing suicide is to increase awareness about the problem. Governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the media should work together to raise awareness about the risk factors for suicide, the warning signs, and where to seek help.

2. Improve mental health services: Mental health services in many African countries are inadequate, and there is a significant shortage of mental health professionals. Governments should invest in mental health services and train more mental health professionals to address the growing demand for services.

3. Address social and economic factors: Poverty, unemployment, and other social and economic factors have been identified as contributing factors to the rise in suicide cases. Governments should work to address these factors through policies and programs aimed at reducing poverty, creating employment opportunities, and improving access to education and healthcare.

4. Provide crisis intervention services: Crisis intervention services, such as hotlines and crisis centers, can be an effective way to prevent suicide. These services should be widely promoted and made easily accessible to young people who may be at risk of suicide.

5. Encourage help-seeking behavior: Many young people who are at risk of suicide may not seek help due to stigma or a lack of awareness about available services. Governments, NGOs, and the media should work together to encourage help-seeking behavior and reduce the stigma associated with mental health problem.

In conclusion, the rise in youth suicide cases across Africa is a cause for concern, and it is crucial that action is taken to address this problem. By increasing awareness, improving mental health services, addressing social and economic factors, providing crisis intervention services, and encouraging help-seeking behavior, we can work towards preventing suicide and saving lives