Mbabane – As the world prepares to commemorate World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, the World Health Organization (WHO) has called on Emaswati to embrace open dialogue as a way to break the silence surrounding suicide and save lives.
Speaking during the media briefing to raise awareness on suicide, WHO Representative Dr. Susan Tembo said this year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative, Let’s Start the Conversation,” is a call to action aimed at challenging stigma and creating hope.
Dr. Tembo stressed that contrary to widespread belief, talking about suicide does not encourage it. “Evidence shows that talking about suicide does not encourage it, on the contrary, it prevents it,” she said.
Dr. Tembo also warned that silence and stigma fuel suicide as it isolates those struggling with suicidal thoughts and discourage them from seeking help.
She also called for suicide to be openly discussed in homes, workplaces, churches, schools, and communities. According to Tembo, conversations filled with compassion and understanding give people hope and provide the first step towards recovery.
Dr. Thembo emphasized that suicide is not only a health problem but a societal challenge. She said preventing it requires collective responsibility and active involvement from every sector of society.
Dr. Tembo also pointed to the media as a central partner in shaping how suicide is understood. She urged journalists to avoid sensational reporting or sharing harmful details that could endanger vulnerable individuals. Instead, she encouraged them to highlight stories of resilience, recovery, and support systems that can guide people away from harmful decisions.
“Media can either fuel stigma or help dismantle it,” she said, noting that every article, broadcast, or post on suicide has the power to influence public attitudes.
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