By Milcah Tanimu

On the occasion of the 2023 World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), Lifeline International, a non-governmental organization (NGO), underscores the critical importance of accessible crisis support services in preventing suicides and saving lives. Professor Taiwo Sheikh, the Continental Representative of Lifeline International, conveyed this message in a statement released on Sunday in Lagos.

Sheikh expressed deep concern over the prevalence of suicide as a significant issue across the African continent. Africa is home to six of the ten countries with the highest suicide rates globally. The annual observance of WSPD on September 10 aims to raise global awareness of suicide prevention possibilities.

This year’s WSPD theme is “Creating Hope Through Action.” Sheikh highlighted the substantial barriers to suicide prevention in Africa, including inadequate public expenditure on mental health and suicide prevention. He emphasized that effective suicide prevention necessitates a holistic approach involving government entities, civil society organizations, and community leaders.

Mental health issues, including the risk of suicide, affect millions in Africa, often exacerbated by stigma and cultural misunderstandings. However, Sheikh pointed out that progress is being made as more African countries, such as Kenya, Ghana, Malawi, and Nigeria, recognize the urgent need to address these challenges. Kenya’s publication of its suicide prevention strategy in 2022 marked a significant milestone in this effort.

Sheikh stressed the importance of reshaping attitudes and perceptions towards suicide, considering the deep cultural, traditional, and religious beliefs prevalent in Africa. Lifeline International and its members are committed to advocating for policy changes, even in challenging environments where suicide remains criminalized. Open dialogue about suicide and improved access to evidence-based interventions can dispel misconceptions and save lives across the continent.

In Africa, where cultural values are deeply ingrained, efforts to prevent suicide must align with these values to create lasting impact. The commemoration of WSPD serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the life-saving work undertaken by Lifeline International’s six African members, dedicated to enhancing suicide prevention and crisis support resources while promoting greater access and reducing barriers to help-seeking.

Lifeline International is a global civil society organization focused on preventing suicide by reducing the stigma surrounding it and increasing awareness and support for individuals in crisis worldwide through crisis helplines.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 703,000 people take their own lives each year, with countless others attempting suicide. Suicide has far-reaching effects on families, communities, and entire countries, and it is not confined to high-income nations but occurs globally, affecting all regions. The majority of global suicides, 77%, transpire in low- and middle-income countries. Vulnerable groups, including refugees, migrants, indigenous peoples, LGBTI individuals, and prisoners, are at particularly high risk for suicide.