The rise of suicide in Nigeria is a serious issue that deserves attention. National statistics have shown a noticeable increase in the cases of suicide across Nigeria.
According to the World Health Organization, there were an estimated 13,500 suicides in Nigeria in 2020, up from 12,000 in 2019. This means that suicide is the 19th leading cause of death in Nigeria.
The World Health Organisation’s findings in 2020 also indicated that about 30% of Nigerians have one form of mental illness or the other. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the security situation in the country, and other social issues such as unemployment, economic issues, poverty, financial challenges, and insecurity, among others. It is believed that these figures have gone up significantly.
People continue to jump off the Lagos Third Mainland Bridge into the Lagoon, or ingest ‘Sniper’, a disinfectant and all-purpose cleaner, turned into a popular and easily available poison, to commit suicide. In a country where suicide is erroneously associated with spiritual causes, plus a paucity of psychiatric experts, curbing the malaise is undoubtedly challenging.
One example of this tragic trend is the case of a man in Owerri who committed suicide because his lover refused his proposal. Another is the case of a 20-year-old man named Chijioke who committed suicide by hanging himself in an uncompleted building at Mgboapipia, Umuokoto Umudibia Nekede in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.
Suicide is a complex issue with many contributing factors. According to leading psychiatric expert Dr. Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri, there are many reasons why both young and old people are taking their lives in Nigeria. Mental illness, financial difficulties, relationship breakups, and other life stresses can all play a role. Other rising causes of suicide in Nigeria may include;
Domestic violence: Women and children are disproportionately affected by domestic violence, and this can also lead to suicide.
Social isolation: Many Nigerians feel isolated and alone, and this can make them more vulnerable to suicide.
Cultural factors: Some cultural factors, such as the stigma surrounding mental health problems, can also contribute to suicide rates.
The impacts of suicide on the lives of loved ones or those left behind:
Shock and disbelief: The sudden and unexpected death of a loved one to suicide can be very difficult to process. Loved ones may feel shocked, disbelief, and denial. They may find it hard to believe that their loved one is gone, and they may keep expecting them to come home.
Sadness and grief: Suicide is a major loss, and loved ones will experience sadness and grief. They may cry, feel numb, or have difficulty concentrating. They may also have physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomachaches.
Anger: Loved ones may also feel anger towards their loved one for taking their own life. They may also feel anger towards themselves, other people, or the world.
Guilt: Loved ones may also feel guilt. They may wonder if they could have done something to prevent the suicide, or they may feel guilty for not being there for their loved one.
Loneliness and isolation: Suicide can make loved ones feel isolated and alone. They may feel like they are the only ones who have ever experienced this kind of loss, and they may be afraid to talk to others about it.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Some loved ones may develop PTSD after the suicide of a loved one. PTSD is a mental health condition that can cause symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks, and anxiety.
Raising awareness about this issue is dear to us at Injustice is Real (IIR) and crucial to addressing it effectively. People need to understand that suicide is preventable and that help is available for those who are struggling. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please seek help from a mental health professional or a support organization.
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