Tanzania envisions success as it marks Global Suicide Day today

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Ministry of Health has said it has invested in five areas in its bid to combat or prevent suicide, with statistics showing that suicide is the leading cause of death among young people aged between 15 and 29 years.

A statement issued by the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Grace Maghembe, said that every year on September 10, Tanzania joins other nations in commemorating World Suicide Prevention Day, where this year the theme is “Bringing Hope Through Action” with the aim of taking action, collaborating with families, friends, health workers, religious and political leaders to reduce deaths and protect mental health through counseling, which will enable others to take control of their lives and appreciate the life they have.

Dr Maghembe said that according to statistics, the problem of suicide is increasing, with the World Health Organization (WHO) indicating that every second one person takes their own life, which is approximately equivalent to 800,000 people every year worldwide.

“Suicidal thoughts can happen to anyone, be it a young person, a parent, a friend or your neighbor, and often a person who is suffering psychologically does not show it. He may laugh during the day but cries alone at night, let’s not stay silent, people who hide suicidal thoughts need a safe environment to talk and non-judgmental support, let’s not ignore someone when they say they are unhappy or have no reason to live.

She said the Government in collaboration with various stakeholders continues to strengthen mental health services and combat the problem of suicide by launching awareness campaigns, improving counseling services in health care centers.

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Dr Maghembe added that they have also established a psychological help desk where clients can call 199 for free and receive psychological education and advice or send a text message to 15061, provide training to health workers, paomja and collaborate with civil society organizations and religious leaders to remove the concept of stigma and encourage people to seek help early.

“Let’s listen carefully and explain to them that help “Talking about grief, depression and suicide is not a shame, it is still a way to get help for a treatable health problem,” she stressed.

She also said the ministry is calling on the entire community to be part of the solution in combating the problem of suicide, learn to listen without judgment, show love and compassion to those experiencing mental health challenges and encourage them to seek early help.

“Let’s create a safe environment for open discussion without shame and remove the stigma against mental health problems within our communities. Each of us has a responsibility to protect and value life, let’s unite to bring hope through actions,” said Dr Maghembe.