Northern Zambia suicide soars as authorities call for behavioural therapy

The Zambia Police Service in Northern Division have expressed deep concern over the increasing number of suicide cases recorded in the province during the period May 2025 to May 2026.

During the period under review, the Division recorded a total of 34 suicide cases across various districts in Northern Province from the previous year of 23.

Unveiling the latest statistics in Kasama on Sunday, Northern Province Deputy Commanding Officer, Charles Mbita, stated that in May this year, the number of suicide cases increased to 34, up from 23 in the previous year.

“The Zambia Police Service notes with serious concern that the majority of victims fall within the youthful age bracket, with some cases involving juveniles and young adults,” Mbita bemoaned.

He noted that this trend was worrying as it called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to address mental health challenges and other social pressures affecting communities.

The Division observed that possible contributing factors may include family and marital disputes.

Others are failure to fend for the family in case of male adults, depression and mental health challenges as well high intake of alcohol and substance abuse.

Mbita added that social isolation and lack of counseling services was among the factors causing a surge in suicide cases.

“The Zambia Police Service is therefore appealing to members of the public to seek guidance and counselling whenever faced with emotional or psychological challenges,” he said.

He encouraged families, community leaders, churches, and other stakeholders to provide support to vulnerable individuals and promote mental health awareness within communities.

The Police further urged members of the public to avoid stigmatizing individuals facing mental health difficulties and instead encourage them to seek professional help from health institutions, counsellors, and religious organizations.

Mbita maintained that the Zambia Police Service remained committed to working with relevant stakeholders in sensitizing communities and promoting initiatives aimed at preventing further loss of lives.

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