Lifeline Malawi Highlights the Dangers of Immoral Behavior and Mob Justice in Contributing to Children's Suicide Cases
Lifeline Malawi, a non-governmental organization committed to promoting mental health awareness and providing support for individuals experiencing mental health issues, has called on the general public to stop engaging in mob justice and other immoral behavior in the presence of children. The organization highlighted that such behavior could be contributing to the increasing number of suicide cases among children in Malawi.
The organization's Deputy Director, Henderson Mhango, made this call during an orientation workshop on Saturday, March 4th, in Zomba. Mhango stated that the organization had learned from stakeholders that one contributing factor to the rise in suicide cases among children is the trend of indulging in immoral behavior in front of them. He went on to note that some adults even commit suicide in the presence of children, making children view suicide as a better option when stressed.
Mhango also highlighted that community members were often reckless in handling issues of child protection, such as committing mob justice in front of children, which could affect their well-being. To prevent such deaths and other mental health-related deaths, Mhango suggested increasing the availability and accessibility of mental health services and information by training more mental health champions in the community.
Malizani Phiri, the Acting Executive Director of Youth for Change, reinforced this message and called on parents to refrain from discussing marital challenges in front of their children as it affects their well-being. Phiri noted that such incidents give children the impression that suicide is the lasting solution to challenges. She further stated that parents arguing in front of their children, community members beating or killing a suspect with children watching, and allowing children to watch social media videos of mob violence could contribute to an increase in suicide cases among children.
Joseph Charles Mwalambura, an official at Malawi Prison Service, pointed out that mental health issues have also affected the prison warders who are always face to face with prisoners.
Participants at the workshop encouraged Lifeline Malawi to work with all sectors and departments to fight mental health issues in the country.
The workshop also highlighted that more men are committing suicide than women. Men were challenged to share their daily experiences with friends and relatives to promote mental health awareness.
According to reports, at least 39 Malawians committed suicide in January, with debts and marriage problems being the main contributing factors. Of these, 37 were men, and two were women.
Lifeline Malawi's call to action highlights the need for increased awareness of the dangers of engaging in immoral behavior and mob justice in the presence of children. It also highlights the importance of providing accessible mental health services and training mental health champions in the community. With these measures, it is hoped that the rising number of suicide cases among children in Malawi can be prevented.