There is no single cause for suicide, although depression is cited as the most common associated condition. And while there has been progress in national suicide prevention strategies in some countries within the past five years, much more is needed. The total number of countries with suicide prevention activities stands at a low 38, notes the World Health Organization (WHO), and governments need to step up. “Despite progress, one person still dies every 40 seconds from suicide,” said WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Every death is a tragedy for family, friends and colleagues. Yet suicides are preventable. We call on all countries to incorporate proven suicide prevention strategies into national health and education programmes in a sustainable way.” The facts are worrying: There are approximately 23 suicides a day in South Africa. South Africa also has the sixth highest rate of suicide in Africa. South African men are said to be m...