Kickstarting the year with some amazing news! C-Sema is proud to join Lifeline International, a global network dedicated to curating suicide prevention services and breaking the silence surrounding mental health issues.
As part of this international coalition, we intend to collaborate with like-minded entities from around the world, sharing insights, best practices, and innovative strategies for suicide prevention.
In most countries, suicide is a stigmatised topic. Be that as it may, data from the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) shows, that an estimated 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide each year and that over half (58%) of all deaths by suicide occur before the age of 50 years old. Data also states that globally, suicide is the 4th leading cause of death for 15-19-year-olds.
In Tanzania, the suicide mortality rate (per 100,000 population) was reported at 4.3 % in 2019, according to the World Bank and according to the latest WHO data published in 2020, suicide deaths in Tanzania reached 2,474 (or 0.84%) of total deaths. The age-adjusted Death Rate is 8.15 per 100,000 population ranking Tanzania 96th in the world. These numbers alone depict the dire need for more effective suicide prevention interventions locally and globally.
Our core strategic program; the National Child Helpline, recognised for its unwavering dedication to the well-being of children, is poised to play a crucial role within the network by working tirelessly to foster awareness, understanding, and support for mental health, while simultaneously addressing the critical issue of suicide prevention among children and youth. With the belief that no one should face mental health challenges alone, we intend to continue being a trusted ally for individuals navigating the complexities of mental well-being.
Lifeline International offers a unique platform for us to contribute to a collective vision of a world where mental health is a global priority.
As we embark on this new year, the journey to amplify C-Sema’s efforts in creating a safer and more nurturing environment for children in Tanzania continues, and with this newfound affiliation, we look forward to a future where suicide prevention is available, accepted, and encouraged within our communities!
Written by Faith Mkony, Communication & Advocacy Officer.