Study finds high rates of suicidal thoughts among Cape Town primary healthcare patients

<p>Researchers found that high perceived stress and exposure to community violence remained significantly associated with suicidal ideation even after accounting for mental disorders. HIV status and other sociodemographic factors showed no independent association.</p>

<p>Dr Tlali said the findings suggest that suicide risk cannot be explained solely by the presence of mental disorders.</p>

<p>“Our findings show that mental disorders remain important drivers of suicidal thoughts and behaviours, but they are only part of the picture. Violence, chronic stress and the broader social circumstances in which people live also shape suicide risk,” she said.</p>

<p>The study highlights the role of structural and psychosocial stressors in shaping suicide risk, particularly in low-income communities.</p>

<p>Researchers recommended strengthening suicide-risk assessment and improving access to quality mental healthcare within routine primary healthcare services. They also called for broader interventions aimed at reducing violence, addressing psychosocial stress and tackling the underlying social conditions that contribute to psychological distress.</p>

<p>Globally, suicide remains a major public health challenge, causing an estimated 700,000 deaths each year. Nearly 80% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. South Africa has one of the highest estimated suicide rates in the world, with about 14,000 deaths annually.</p>

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<p><strong>IOL</strong></p>

<p><strong>The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) offers a 24-hour helpline on 0800 567 567.</strong></p>

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