The surge in suicide amongst married women in Nigeria

By Joy Jaiyesimi

When you hear an individual has commited suicide, we mostly sympathize with them and the family they left behind, an outsider cannot really understand the impact and the pain of such a tragic act by people who might have succumbed to mental health challenge. However, when you know a suicide victim you will probably be asking is there a way I could have helped or prevented this tragedy if I had paid more attention, loved and did not discriminate.

On the 21st of May 2024 a very young married woman, Margaret Oyibo Atayi in my neighborhood succumbed to suicide, this very bright and sharp lady in her early twenties whom I have interreacted with couldn’t come out of her depression as a result of marital challenges.

Confirming her death, the bereaved father, Mr Atayi, said, “Margaret was a mother of two children. She has been in depression for some time now due to mistreatment by her husband. She went out on that fateful Friday morning by 3am without the knowledge of anybody. Her body was discovered in the late hours of Monday, and every available evidence confirmed that she committed suicide.”

When I heard of her death, I had goosebumps, since then I have been wondering what must have led this mother of two to such an untimely death? A lady full of life, how could she have gotten to this depressive pit and no one was able to pull her out? until she couldn’t see the light, the bright candle light burned off in the midst of her days.

Her story sheds light on the silent struggles many women face, especially within the confines of their marriages. The pressures of societal expectations, coupled with economic hardships and mental health challenges, create a heavy burden for many.

Indeed, suicide is a global issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds, and it’s crucial that we address it with empathy, understanding, and proactive measures. Margaret’s case underscores the urgency for prioritizing mental health support and intervention, particularly for women who may be enduring domestic violence or other forms of mistreatment.

According to the World Health Organization WHO, suicide is a common cause of mortality that affects people of all ages. It is the fourth largest cause of death worldwide, among those aged 15 to 29. This is a global issue that affects all parts of the world, not only high-income nations. In fact, low- and middle-income nations such as Nigeria, accounted for more than 77% of all suicides worldwide in 2019.

The WHO suicide Ranking disclosed that Nigeria ranks the 30th most suicide prone countries in the world and 10th in Africa with 15.1 percent of suicide per 100,000 of her population.

Raising awareness about mental health, encouraging open dialogue, and fostering supportive communities are vital steps toward prevention. It’s essential for individuals, families, communities, and governments to come together to provide resources, education, and support networks for those in need.

Margaret’s story serves as a poignant reminder that behind the facade of outward appearance, there may be hidden struggles that require our attention and compassion. By reaching out, showing empathy, and providing support, we can help prevent future tragedies and create a more caring and understanding society.

Margaret Oyibo Atayi ,  is one of the many tragic  reported cases of married women who have succumbed to suicide  , the surge in suicide amongst married women in Nigeria calls  for  deep reflection and urgent attention from everyone including parents, religious leaders , friends and families, government and non-governmental organization to address the issues of domestic violence,  prioritize mental health treatment , stop discrimination and prioritized the health and wellbeing of women as against societal expectations.

However, ending it all is not the solution to the present challenges you’re facing , when you  speak -up you will realize that there are hundreds of other women who are going through or have gone through similar or worse challenges than you, who are willing to share experiences and coping tips with you.

A problem shared is half solved, seek medical advice, visit a psychologist and confide in trusted person{s} don’t be ashamed to say how you feel.