The latest data from the World Health Organization has revealed the country with the highest suicide rate in the world.
Picture: iStock / R_Tee
Surrounded entirely by South Africa, the Kingdom of Lesotho is home to 2,3 million people. According to the data, 87,5 people per 100 000 take their own lives each year.
The South African reported that this is more than double the second country on the list which is South America’s Guyana. The figure for the Republic of Guyana is just over 40 people per 100 000.
The global average stands at nine suicides per 100 000 people.
The Telegraph reported that the suicide rate in Lesotho is particularly high in men. This can be linked to the traditional role of a man being seen as a provider – something which is strongly upheld in the county. As a result, unemployed men with families to support often encounter psychological challenges which are caused by low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy.
There are also a number of other factors which likely worsen the suicide situation in Lesotho. According to experts and Lesotho locals, these include poverty, drug abuse and a lack of prospects for young people.
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