Suicide: At Least 711 Deaths in 2020 in Togo

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Extract from the article: Every year on September 10th, we observe World Suicide Prevention Day. This year's theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," aims to encourage individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to engage in open and honest discussions...

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Every year on September 10th, we observe World Suicide Prevention Day. This year's theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," aims to encourage individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behaviors. Once a taboo subject, suicide has become an alarming reality in our societies. It's time to lift the veil on this silent tragedy that affects so many lives and take concrete steps to prevent these avoidable losses.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, every 40 seconds, someone takes their own life, and every three seconds, someone attempts suicide. Additionally, between 800,000 to 1,000,000 people die by suicide each year, with 79% of all suicides occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

Africa is not immune to this phenomenon. WHO data shows an average suicide rate of 12 per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to a global rate of 10.5. On average, African men commit suicide far more frequently than women.

In Togo, the situation seems to be worsening. According to the latest WHO data published in 2020, deaths by suicide in Togo reached 711 or 1.43% of total deaths. The Ministry of Security and Civil Protection reported 46 suicide cases in the second half of 2021: 36 by hanging, 5 by drowning, 4 by firearm, and 1 by flooding. The gender distribution shows that 76.26% were men and 21.74% were women. This situation is further confirmed by a 2019 WHO report, which ranked Togo 8th among African countries with the highest suicide rates.

A Silent Reality

Although precise statistics on suicide in Togo are hard to obtain, it is undeniable that this issue exists and is growing. The causes are varied, including economic difficulties, limited access to mental health care, increased social pressure, and a lack of family or community support. Every suicide is a tragedy, leaving families and communities devastated, often with no answers or adequate support.

Stigma: A Major Obstacle to Prevention

One of the greatest barriers to suicide prevention is the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Many still view these problems as personal weaknesses or curses, preventing those affected from seeking the help they desperately need. This stigma must be addressed through increased awareness and appropriate education, helping everyone understand that mental health conditions are medical issues that require treatment just like any other illness.

The Role of Communities and Institutions

Suicide prevention cannot succeed without the active involvement of communities and institutions. Families, friends, colleagues, as well as community and religious leaders, all have a role to play. It's essential to create an environment where individuals feel supported, heard, and understood. Institutions, on their part, must strengthen mental health services, particularly in rural areas where resources are often limited.

Criminal Law and Suicide Prevention

In some countries, such as Nigeria, attempted suicide is criminalized. According to Nigerian criminal law, a person who attempts suicide faces up to one year in prison. While this law may seem harsh, its goal is to discourage individuals from acting by establishing legal consequences. However, this approach sparks debate. Some believe the threat of legal sanctions could discourage people from taking their own lives, forcing them to consider the legal consequences. This deterrence could, in some cases, save lives. Others argue that this law risks worsening the situation for those in distress. Instead of seeking help, they may hesitate for fear of legal repercussions, further isolating themselves. The risk is to criminalize psychological suffering rather than treat it as a health problem requiring compassionate intervention.

In Togo, such legislation does not exist, raising the question of whether a punitive approach could be beneficial or counterproductive. Any legislative or policy measures must consider local realities and the need to provide appropriate support to individuals in crisis.

Strengthening Prevention

Mental health is an integral part of overall health and well-being. Yet, far too many people in Togo who need help for mental health issues do not receive it. Now is the time to radically change this situation. The efforts countries are currently making should be strengthened and expanded so that mental health care becomes a public health priority in the African Region. According to Dr. Anama Tousso, President of the Association of Clinical Psychologists and Hospital Health in Togo (APCSH-Togo), "The numerous successive cases of suicide recorded in recent months are only the visible part of a sadly more dramatic situation and constitute an invitation to more vigorous action. Moreover, the suicide mortality rate is considered an indicator of target 3.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, which is to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by one-third through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being."

Everyone has a role to play in this fight. Whether by offering a listening ear to a loved one in distress, participating in awareness campaigns, or supporting mental health initiatives, we can all help save lives. Suicide is a preventable tragedy, and together, we can make a meaningful difference.

Raymond DZAKPATA