By Staff Writer
Youth Changing The Mindset Organisation (YCMO) says it is concerned with the increased cases of suicide in the country.
YCMO Executive Director Comfort Mwansa said suicide is now among the top 20 leading causes of death globally for all ages.
Mr Mwansa said that, the prevention of suicide in the country has not been adequately addressed due to lack of awareness of suicide as a major problem and societies consider discussing it as a taboo.
Mental illness, primarily depression, alcohol use disorders, abuse, violence, cultural and social background represent major risk factors to suicide,” he said.
He has since challenged Government to play a pivotal role in fighting suicide cases in the country by creating a national strategy, working together with other stakeholders.
” Government should work with the ministry of health, education, labour, police, justice, religion and the media because fighting suicide requires collaborative efforts, “he said.
He has also urged the community to embrace and provide social support by protecting people that are vulnerable to suicide by building their coping skills and sense of connectedness.
He further added that communities must provide nurturing environments to those who are vulnerable and government can set a good example to enable them to do so.
