By Sizwe Dlamini
Eswatini is facing a significant mental health crisis, as recent reports indicate that the country ranks the third highest in the world for suicide rates.
At the commemoration of World Mental Health Day, held at the Mountain View Hotel on Thursday, Sitembile Bhembe, a representative from the Ministry of Health, highlighted the urgent need for intervention.
Bhembe’s presentation referenced studies conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2014 and 2024, which found that one in ten emaSwati experienced suicidal thoughts or attempts in the past year.
This alarming statistic underscores the critical nature of the situation, especially given that there is only one psychiatric facility serving a population of approximately 1.2 million people.
“Mental health encompasses how individuals feel, think, and interact with others,” Bhembe explained. “The WHO estimates that one in eight people globally lives with a mental health condition, primarily depression and anxiety. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified these issues, resulting in a 23% increase in reported mental health conditions.”
In Africa, the prevalence of depression is particularly concerning, affecting around 25 million people. Nigeria has the highest burden, with approximately 7 million people affected, while South Africa, with a population of 59 million, has about 20.5 million individuals suffering from depression.
In Eswatini, depression ranks as the third leading mental health condition, with the World Bank indicating that the nation has one of the highest suicide rates globally.
Bhembe noted that despite these concerning numbers, many individuals suffer in silence due to the stigma surrounding mental health.
“How many of you have spoken to anyone about the challenges you face?” she asked the audience, prompting reflection on the societal pressures that discourage open discussions about mental health issues.
She added that cultural beliefs linking mental health struggles to witchcraft further isolate those in need of help.
With only one mental health facility available, access to care is critically limited, and the shortage of mental health professionals exacerbates the situation. Additionally, the high prevalence of communicable diseases contributes to increased rates of depression and anxiety, creating a cycle of despair.
In her closing remarks, Bhembe emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
“We need to normalize conversations about mental health and make care more accessible. Education and awareness campaigns can help shift societal perceptions, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgment. Integrating mental health services into general healthcare is essential for creating a supportive environment. Expanding mental health resources and funding can lead to community-based support systems, making it easier for individuals to access the care they need,” she urged.
Following Bhembe’s address, the Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula highlighted the theme for World Mental Health Day 2024: “It’s time to prioritize mental health in the workplace.” He emphasized the collective responsibility to foster environments that support mental wellness and address the critical issue of suicide prevention in Eswatini.
“As we reflect on the past year, we must acknowledge the growing mental health challenges faced by our people, particularly in the workplace,” Matsebula stated.
“The pressures of modern life, economic uncertainties, and the stigma surrounding mental health contribute to an alarming increase in mental health disorders and, tragically, suicides. It is essential to understand that mental health is not merely the absence of illness but a state of well-being that enables individuals to cope with stress and contribute to their communities.”
The Minister called upon all employers, employees, and stakeholders to commit to creating a culture of openness and support for mental health in the workplace.
“In Eswatini, we have witnessed heartbreaking cases of suicide, often rooted in untreated mental health conditions, overwhelming stress, and isolation. These tragedies underscore the urgent need for comprehensive mental health strategies that prioritize prevention, education, and support within our workplaces and communities,” he said.