Suicide statistics shocking – McLeod-Katjirua
NAMPA
WINDHOEK
Khomas governor Laura McLeod-Katjirua has expressed concern about the “shocking and worrisome” suicide statistics in the country, saying there is an urgent need for practical interventions to address the matter.
Recent statistics show that at least 745 people committed suicide in Namibia between January 2020 and June 2021, while 1 172 people attempted to commit suicide in the same period.
Of those who committed suicide, 609 were men and 35 were children under the age of 18.
Speaking at the commemoration of World Suicide Day on Friday, McLeod-Katjirua said the country was losing active citizens on a regular basis.
She said the situation called for effective, tangible and evidence-based interventions at all levels of society.
She urged health experts and social workers to continue giving the community the necessary information to be in a better position to detect the warning signs of suicide.
Vigilance
“We must be vigilant, observant and always strictly avoid underestimating any simple suicidal intentions in our community setup.
“I also humbly request our fellow brothers and sisters who might be at any moment cornered or kept hostage by any depression or social problems to share with your trusted or loved ones to avoid any suicide. Problems shared are actually problems solved,” she said.
Police deputy inspector-general Joseph Shikongo said it was important for people to support each other during happy times and times of hardship.
“Life is a long journey with many ups and downs, lessons, joy, sorrow, celebration, commemoration, success, failure, happiness and sadness.
“It is, therefore, important to understand that in this life journey, we need each other, we need love, we need support, and all-in-all, a word of encouragement to overcome the obstacles in life,” Shikongo said.
WINDHOEK
Khomas governor Laura McLeod-Katjirua has expressed concern about the “shocking and worrisome” suicide statistics in the country, saying there is an urgent need for practical interventions to address the matter.
Recent statistics show that at least 745 people committed suicide in Namibia between January 2020 and June 2021, while 1 172 people attempted to commit suicide in the same period.
Of those who committed suicide, 609 were men and 35 were children under the age of 18.
Speaking at the commemoration of World Suicide Day on Friday, McLeod-Katjirua said the country was losing active citizens on a regular basis.
She said the situation called for effective, tangible and evidence-based interventions at all levels of society.
She urged health experts and social workers to continue giving the community the necessary information to be in a better position to detect the warning signs of suicide.
Vigilance
“We must be vigilant, observant and always strictly avoid underestimating any simple suicidal intentions in our community setup.
“I also humbly request our fellow brothers and sisters who might be at any moment cornered or kept hostage by any depression or social problems to share with your trusted or loved ones to avoid any suicide. Problems shared are actually problems solved,” she said.
Police deputy inspector-general Joseph Shikongo said it was important for people to support each other during happy times and times of hardship.
“Life is a long journey with many ups and downs, lessons, joy, sorrow, celebration, commemoration, success, failure, happiness and sadness.
“It is, therefore, important to understand that in this life journey, we need each other, we need love, we need support, and all-in-all, a word of encouragement to overcome the obstacles in life,” Shikongo said.
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