LACK OF SAFE SPACES FUELLING SUICIDE — SIACHITI CHILEMA

By Francis Chipalo Social Development Specialist and Mental Health Activist Siachiti Chilema has called for open conversations among peers as a critical intervention in addressing the rising cases of suicide in Zambia. Chilema observed that many people, especially men, have taken their own lives due to lack of safe environments where they can speak freely […]

By Francis Chipalo

Social Development Specialist and Mental Health Activist Siachiti Chilema has called for open conversations among peers as a critical intervention in addressing the rising cases of suicide in Zambia.

Chilema observed that many people, especially men, have taken their own lives due to lack of safe environments where they can speak freely about what they are going through.

He noted that financial stress, debt and relationship breakdowns are among the major drivers of suicide in the country.

“Many people, especially men, have committed suicide due to lack of environments where they can speak freely,” Chilema said.

Chilema said open conversations amongst peers would help in addressing suicide, as it allows individuals to share burdens, seek advice and get emotional support before reaching crisis point.
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Meanwhile, Chilema has emphasized the need for increased investment in mental health services, saying mental health remains underfunded despite its growing burden.

He also challenged the harmful notion that men “should be strong,” saying this stereotype has prevented many men from opening up and seeking help.

“The notion that men should be strong is the reason why many have committed suicide because they did not open up to anyone,” he said.

Chilema called on communities, workplaces, churches and families to create peer support platforms where people can talk without judgment and be linked to professional help where needed.

He said this in an interview in Lusaka.
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