Special Episode: Changing the Narrative on Suicide - A Conversation with Karlien Burger

Our host, Selma Ndasilohenda Iyambo, sits down with Karlien Burger, an Occupational Therapist and lecturer from the University of Namibia, in honor of Suicide Prevention Month. This episode highlights the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicide. During the conversation, Karlien delves into cognitive distortions, the impact of suicide on friends and family, and the contributing factors to high suicide rates among men. She also emphasizes the importance of seeking help, where assistance can be found, and the cost of psychological support in Namibia. Karlien shares alarming statistics: 1,542 Namibians took their own lives between April 2020 and March 31, 2023. During this period, Namibia was ranked with the highest suicide rates in Africa. On average, the country recorded over one suicide per day, with about 82% of the victims being men. According to the Namibian Police, in July, The Namibian reported that 679 suicides occurred in Namibia between January 2021 and May 2022, involving 559 men, 91 women, and 29 children. Tune in to learn how we can contribute to suicide prevention and understand the factors behind these alarming statistics. Let’s make mental health a priority. Happy listening!