“It’s a lot of things”: Zimbabwean university students’ perceptions on the causes of suicide ideation and suicidality among youths during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

This research studies university undergraduate students’ perceptions of the causes of suicide and suicidality among the youths in Zimbabwe with reference to the case of Midlands State University. The research also examined the contribution of COVID-19 to suicide and suicidality and the role of the family and church in suicide and suicidality causation or prevention. A qualitative methodology was used to collect data through semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews and a focus group discussion using a sample of 31 participants. Thomas Joiner’s Interpersonal theory of suicide is utilised and adapted to explain suicide ideation among Zimbabwean youths. Abusive, fractured family and romantic relationships, economic frustrations, stigmatisation, loneliness, drug abuse and the pressure to conform were some of the causes of suicide ideation. The research recommends increased regular mental health and suicide prevention awareness campaigns to inform the students on the available services. Supportive, stable and positive relationships and interactions within families and churches are necessary to build resilience against suicide ideation and suicidality.

KEYWORDS:

• COVID-19
• suicide ideation
• suicidality
• families
• youth

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The authors did not receive any financial support for this research.

Notes on contributors

Michael White

Michael White graduated with first class honours in Sociology from the Midlands State University. His research interests lie in sexual and reproductive health rights, mental health, identity and crime among the youths and youth inclusion in development.

Chipo Hungwe

Chipo Hungwe, Ph.D is an Associate Professor of Sociology who has taught Sociology for more than 20 years. She uses the life course approach to interrogate intersections of gender, age, and social class in Southern Africa. Prof Hungwe is the Executive Dean of Social Sciences at the Midlands State University.