JUBA – At least 11 people have taken their own lives in Central Equatoria in one week, the state security committee reported on Tuesday, warning of a rising suicide case among young people.
The issue was tabled during the committee’s weekly security meeting chaired by CES Governor Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, at the State Secretariat.
Addressing the press, CES Minister for Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency Hon. Leon Abe Brown said that eleven cases were reported last week alone, mostly linked to drug abuse among youth.
According to the World Health Organization, suicide is a global public health concern, with close to 800 000 people losing their life to suicide every year.
In South Sudan, suicide has become a growing public health concern, especially among the country’s younger population.
In 2020 alone, South Sudan had the 13th highest rate of suicide in the world, with the majority involving individuals aged between 15 and 29 years.
Years of conflict, displacement, and trauma have taken a toll on the mental wellbeing of many South Sudanese, making it essential to provide support and resources. Suicide mortality rate in South Sudan was reported at 7.89% (per 100,000 population) in 2021, according to the World Bank.
NOTE: If you are struggling with your mental health or concerned about a loved one, consider contacting a helpline for quick and free support. 1 helplines and hotlines are available in South Sudan.