Men at higher risk of suicide: experts call for breaking the silence

Iringa. In many countries, men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than women, highlighting a stark gender gap in mental health outcomes.

Mental health experts cite several reasons for this disparity, saying in many societies, men are raised to believe they must be strong, stoic, and self-reliant.

Admitting to emotional struggles or seeking help is often stigmatised as weakness, so many men suffer in silence.

Women are generally more open to discussing their challenges and seeking counselling or treatment, but men, however, often avoid professional help for fear of being judged.

Studies show men tend to resort to more lethal means, such as firearms, poisoning, or hanging, while women more often use less violent methods, making intervention and survival more likely.

Men also carry the heavy burden of being providers as financial struggles or inability to fulfil family responsibilities increase stress and the risk of suicidal thoughts.

The Iringa Regional Referral Hospital Medical Officer in Charge, Dr Alfred Mwakalebela, told The Citizen that difficulty coping with stress is a leading trigger of suicidal behaviour.

“The problem arises when someone lacks effective stress management. Loneliness, loss of appetite, or even relational conflicts can trigger depression,” he said, noting that men are more likely than women to die of suicide because they internalise their struggles.

“Women are generally less affected as they are more open in sharing challenges,” he added.

At Iringa Regional Hospital, most attempted suicides involve poisoning, often pesticides or herbal substances, with men accounting for the majority.

Among women, those most affected are aged 18–25, many attempting suicide due to pregnancy-related stigma.

“Many young women attempt suicide when rejected by partners after becoming pregnant,” explained Dr Mwakalebela.

The Global Picture Worldwide shows that more than 720,000 people take their own lives each year.

For every suicide, an estimated 20 attempts are made. Suicide can occur at any age and across all regions. In 2021, it was the third leading cause of death among those aged 15–29.

Although suicide is closely linked to conditions such as depression, alcohol use disorders, and previous attempts, many deaths occur impulsively in moments of crisis.

Contributing factors include loneliness, discrimination, relationship breakdowns, financial hardship, chronic illness, violence, and humanitarian crises.

Breaking the stigma

Tanzanian mental health experts stress that stigma remains a major barrier to suicide prevention. Dr Mwakalebela called for more investment in psychological education in schools and communities.

“It should not be that someone ends their own life over a debt of just Sh1 million. People need to learn to face challenges, whether financial or family-related. Marital conflicts, in particular, remain a common trigger for suicide,” he emphasised.

As the world marks World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September, led by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the message is clear: suicide is preventable.

Experts urge early intervention, accessible counselling, and a cultural shift encouraging men to seek help. Every individual, family, and institution has a role in safeguarding mental well-being.