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Suicide in South Africa is a public health and social problem that contributes to premature mortality and disability. National estimates and international modelling show that South Africa experiences tens of thousands of deaths from intentional self-harm each year. In 2021, the country recorded an age standardised suicide rate of about 22.3 per 100,000 people, ranking it the sixth highest globally. [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]
Suicide is among the leading causes of death for adolescents and young adults in South Africa, and has been highlighted in multiple national and regional reports as a priority for mental health policy and prevention efforts. National registration data are used by Statistics South Africa to report deaths due to intentional self-harm (suicide) and related external causes. [7] [8]
Men in South Africa die by suicide at a rate of 75% higher than women. Women, however, are more likely to attempt suicide or present with non-fatal self-harm. [5] [14] [8]
Rural areas often report higher suicide rates than urban centres, partly linked to social isolation, firearm access, and lower availability of mental health services. [8] [16]
Post-mortem and epidemiological studies show a strong correlation between alcohol consumption and suicide in South Africa, particularly among young adults. [16] [17]
Adolescents and young adults (15–29) are at higher risk, but suicide also affects middle-aged and older men disproportionately. [18]
Periods of high unemployment and poverty have been linked with elevated suicide rates, especially among working-age men. [8] [16]
South Africa has introduced suicide-prevention and mental-health policies, including proposed national strategies. [5] [8] [19]
These focus on: