AS Zimbabwe joined the global community in commemorating World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday, the urgency of the moment is impossible to ignore.
Suicide remains one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time and this year’s theme Changing the Narrative on Suicide calls for a radical shift in how we speak, think and act around mental health and suicide prevention.
Cimas iGo wellness coach, Chidochashe Makara, believes this theme resonates deeply with the country’s current mental health landscape.
“Mental health services in Zimbabwe are under-resourced and cultural stigma remains strong. Transitioning from silence to open conversation, as the theme encourages, is critical. It aligns with the drive to invest in community-based awareness campaigns,” she added.
The statistics are sobering. According to the World Health Organisation’s 2022 report on mental health conditions in Zimbabwe, 1,8% of all deaths in the country are attributed to suicide, with men contributing a higher rate than women.
Adolescents and youth are particularly vulnerable, facing mounting pressures from school, unemployment and the often-unrelenting influence of social media.
“There is a growing concern about suicide among young people. This is attributed to pressures from school, unemployment and social media.” Makara noted. However, the numbers only tell part of the story. Behind each statistic is a life interrupted, a family shattered and a community left grappling with grief and confusion.
The reasons people die by suicide are complex and multi-faceted, often involving a mix of psychological, social, economic and cultural factors.
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“Economic hardships, such as unemployment, debt and poverty, are known risk factors for mental distress and suicide. They often exacerbate feelings of hopelessness,” Makara added.
In Zimbabwe’s patriarchal society, the pressure to provide can be overwhelming. She said the measure of a man was tied to his ability to adequately provide for his family.
“Earning a living in Zimbabwe has been a main cause of stress among men leading to suicide. Women have not been spared either, as some may find themselves being the sole provider of the family, also exacerbating mental health issues such as depression,” Makara said.
“Substance abuse intensifies suicidal risk by impairing judgment, increasing impulsivity and deepening emotional pain. It is often a response to underlying distress or trauma.”
Cultural expectations and societal norms, she said, also play a significant role in shaping mental health outcomes.
“The pressure to conform to specific gender roles, such as men being expected to be stoic providers, can discourage expressing vulnerability.
Social stigma around mental health may force many to suffer in silence, delaying help-seeking,” Makara added.
This stigma is one of the most formidable barriers to suicide prevention. She highlighted that individuals might avoid seeking help due to shame.
“Families and communities may dismiss warning signs or view them as moral failings rather than distress signals. Stigma also limits open discussion, awareness-raising and policy innovation,” Makara said.
Changing the narrative means challenging these misconceptions head-on. One of the most damaging myths is that talking about suicide makes it more likely to happen. “This is untrue,” Makara said.
“In reality, open discussion can provide relief and encourage help- seeking.”
Another myth is that suicide only affects those with diagnosed mental illnesses. She said suicide involved a complex interplay of factors. Mental health is one, but not the only, contributor. Makara said silence worsened distress. Listening and early response are more helpful. Recognising the warning signs is crucial. Expressions of hopelessness, feeling like a burden or having no sense of future are red flags.
“The person may also exhibit social withdrawal, mood swings or visible changes in behaviour. Increased use of alcohol or substances or giving away belongings may be a sign of suicidal thoughts” Makara pointed out.
She said families and communities have a vital role to play in prevention.
“They can help by listening without judgment, offering empathy and emotional support. Simple actions like saying ‘How are you, really?’ matter. Encouraging them to seek professional help, and assisting with referrals when possible is also showing support,” Makara advised.
Unfortunately, access to professional help remains limited. Zimbabwe currently has only 107 registered psychologists and about 300 registered counsellors, with most concentrated in urban areas.
However, despite these constraints, innovative programmes are making a difference.
“Friendship Bench is doing good work in combating suicide. Cimas also offers mental wellness coaching under its iGo wellness department, which is available for its members,” Makara added.
“Schools and universities are uniquely positioned to intervene early. They can provide awareness programmes, teaching youth to recognise distress in themselves and peers.
“Peer support groups, counselling services and mental health literacy are essential. Teachers and staff can be trained in identifying warning signs and facilitating timely intervention,” she added.
Religious and traditional leaders also hold immense influence. Makara said they could help destigmatise mental health by speaking openly and counselling compassionately.
“They can encourage community-based support, informal counselling and referrals to professional care,” she said.
The media, too, has a responsibility to report on suicide ethically and compassionately.
“Media should avoid sensationalism and adhere to guidelines. They should avoid explicit descriptions or simplistic cause narratives. Instead, they should highlight mental health resources, help-seeking options and use compassionate language.”
For those who feel hopeless or are considering suicide, Makara offered a message of empathy and encouragement.
“You are not alone, many have felt what you are feeling and have found help. It is okay to reach out, talk to someone you trust and seek professional help. Hope is possible, feelings can change and help can guide you toward healing,” she said.
“At Cimas we are committed to changing the narrative on suicide by fostering openness, understanding and support. Your life matters. If you are struggling, reach out. We are here to support you. Together, we can break stigma and create safe spaces for help-seeking.”
The information in this article is provided as a public service by the Cimas iGo Wellness programme, which is designed to promote good health. It is provided for general information only and should not be construed as medical advice. Readers should consult their doctor or clinic on any matter related to their health or the treatment of any health problem. — [email protected]/ WhatsApp: 0772 161 829/ phone 024-2773 0663.
