Deaths by suicide rampant among refugees – Report

A recent study has shed light on the troubling mental health crisis within Uganda’s refugee communities.

Refugees are significantly more likely to experience suicidal thoughts compared to Ugandan nationals, with a report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) revealing stark disparities.

The report, published on November 15, 2024, showed 41 suicides among refugees between January and October, along with over 130 attempted suicides and 13 cases of repeated attempts. In comparison, only seven suicides were reported among Ugandan nationals during the same period, with 44 attempted suicides and three repeated attempts.

These figures shine a bright light on the challenges faced by refugees, particularly in Uganda, which is Africa’s largest host for refugees and asylum seekers. Dr Paul Waluya, a mental health expert, attributes the elevated suicide rates among refugees to their traumatic experiences and the stress of adapting to new environments after displacement.

“Refugees often endure depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder due to the violence, loss and upheaval they’ve experienced. This, combined with the challenges of starting over in an unfamiliar setting, can lead to feelings of isolation and hopelessness,” he explained.

Dr Waluya pointed to the lack of adequate mental health support in refugee camps as a significant contributor to the crisis. Overwhelmed by trauma and without sufficient resources, many refugees find themselves without hope.

“The scarcity of mental health professionals and services in these settings exacerbates their emotional distress, leaving individuals vulnerable to severe outcomes, including suicidal behaviour,” he said.

The report also highlighted broader trends in Uganda, with 238 suicide cases reported among refugees and nationals combined by October 2024. While overall attempted suicides saw a slight decline compared to 2023, men accounted for 85 per cent of all suicide cases, driven largely by family disagreements and financial pressures. Dr Waluya explained that men are less likely to express emotions or seek help, which often leads to more severe outcomes.

“Men tend to internalize struggles and use more lethal methods when attempting suicide, which increases their risk of death,” he said.

ADDRESSING THE CRISIS

Dr Waluya called for greater collaboration between the government and non-governmental organizations to provide resources, advocacy and support for vulnerable communities. He emphasized the importance of addressing misinformation about mental health, noting that reliance on unverified information can hinder effective treatment and intervention.

“Accessible, accurate information is critical for creating campaigns and resources that meet the needs of at-risk populations,” he added.

Renowned clinical psychologist Kay Redfield Jamison, in her book Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide, underscores the importance of timely intervention. She advocates for therapy, medication and compassionate care as critical tools in suicide prevention.

“Treatment is not a cure-all, but it often makes a critical difference,” Jamison writes. She also highlights the life-saving role of connection and empathy in supporting individuals in crisis.

The findings of the UNHCR report serve as a sobering reminder of the urgent need to prioritize mental health within refugee communities. By enhancing access to care, training healthcare providers to recognize warning signs, and promoting public awareness, Uganda can take significant steps toward addressing this growing crisis and fostering hope among its most vulnerable populations.