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• 2 Comments on Changing the Narrative on Suicide: A Call to Action from Zaks Foundation for Humanity
• June 12, 2024

First Published on September 10, 2024.

Every year, on September 10, the world comes together to observe World Suicide Prevention Day under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” Suicide is still a critical public health issue, with over 700,000 people dying by suicide annually, leaving profound social, emotional, and economic scars on individuals and communities. Today, more than ever, we must work collectively to challenge the stigma, provide support, and take concrete actions to eliminate suicide.

In Nigeria and across Africa, suicide is becoming an increasingly concerning issue, with rising rates especially among young people. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria has one of the highest suicide rates in Africa, with 15.1% of the population experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Poverty is a significant driver of suicide, as individuals struggling to make ends meet feel trapped and hopeless. The ripple effects of suicide on families and communities are devastating, perpetuating cycles of poverty and stigma. The causes are multi-faceted, ranging from mental health disorders, depression, and anxiety to economic hardships, substance abuse, and societal pressures. In Nigeria, where poverty is pervasive, the connection between multidimensional poverty and suicide becomes clearer. Families struggling to meet their basic needs, facing unemployment, food insecurity, and lack of access to healthcare, often experience heightened stress and emotional despair. In such environments, individuals may feel hopeless, with no avenues for support or change.

 In many rural areas across Nigeria, access to mental health services remains limited, if not non-existent. This lack of mental health awareness and treatment options contributes significantly to the growing suicide rates. Cultural stigmas attached to seeking mental health care further exacerbate the problem, pushing those in need of help deeper into isolation.

In Nigeria, multidimensional poverty, where individuals lack access to health, education, and living standards, plays a critical role in mental health. The lack of economic opportunities, education, and healthcare can worsen feelings of hopelessness. Economic deprivation is a common factor in suicides, especially among the youth, where dreams of a better life are crushed under the weight of poverty, unemployment, and unmet basic needs.

Addressing suicide in Nigeria and Africa requires a multi-pronged approach:

          1.       Awareness and Mental Health Education: There is a need to change the narrative around mental health and suicide, educating communities about the signs of depression, the importance of mental health, and where to seek help.

          2.       Improving Access to Mental Health Care: Governments and NGOs must work together to make mental health services accessible to everyone, especially in rural areas. Establishing mental health support systems in schools, workplaces, and communities is essential.

          3.       Economic Empowerment Programs: Providing opportunities for skill development, education, and employment can reduce the stress caused by economic deprivation. Programs that focus on eradicating poverty can also indirectly contribute to lowering suicide rates.

          4.       Social Support Systems: Building strong community networks where individuals can openly share their struggles and receive emotional support is critical in reducing the feeling of isolation.

Zaks Foundation for Humanity: Addressing Suicide through Poverty Alleviation and Mental Health Support

At Zaks Foundation for Humanity, we understand the strong connection between poverty, mental health, and suicide. Our work is focused on addressing both the root causes and effects of these challenges. Through our Community Health for Adolescents and Reproductive Mothers (CHARM) program, we not only provide antenatal care and healthcare support but also offer counseling and emotional support for women facing high-risk pregnancies, which can be a significant source of mental strain.

Our broader programs targeting youth and vulnerable populations focus on skill development, economic empowerment, and creating opportunities for financial independence, thus addressing some of the key drivers of mental health crises. By providing access to healthcare, education, and financial support, we aim to lift people out of poverty and give them the tools to lead hopeful, fulfilling lives.

This World Suicide Prevention Day, Zaks Foundation calls on everyone to take a moment to reflect, listen, and act. Together, we can change the narrative on suicide and create a world where every person feels valued, supported, and hopeful for the future

Warm regards,

Aliyu Saka Ahmed Founder,

Zaks Foundation for Humanity