Report reveals alarming rise in suicide deaths in South Africa

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A new report from Discovery Life reveals a concerning rise in suicide-related deaths in South Africa, particularly among older adults.

According to the insurer’s 2024 Claims Experience report, published in April 2025, suicide accounted for 45% of all life claims among those aged 41 to 60.

Among individuals over the age of 50, suicide claims surged by 62% compared to the five-year average.

Suicide now leading cause of unnatural death claims

The report shows that across all age groups, suicide was the leading cause of death from unnatural causes in 2024, accounting for 35% of such claims.

This figure surpassed those from motor vehicle accidents (23%), crime (17%), trauma (10%) and other accidental causes (15%).

The data reflects a troubling trend, with most claims involving older men. However, the youngest claimant was a 35-year-old woman with a history of psychological illness.

Mental health support remains inadequate

According to Mail&Guardian, Clinical psychologist Zamo Mbele said the rise in suicides reflects worsening mental illness, including depression, anxiety, psychotic and substance-use disorders.

He also pointed to the persistent lack of access to appropriate mental health care.

“There is still too little care and a great deal of stigma, so people do not seek help,” Mbele explained.

The Council for Medical Schemes estimates South Africa’s suicide rate at 23.5 per 100 000 people in 2024 translating to around 14 000 deaths a year.

Mbele said mental health challenges are increasing in schools and the workplace.

In corporate environments, he noted that mental health responses are outdated and fail to address individual needs.

A 2023 survey by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) found that 60% of employees wished they could afford to leave their jobs.

The study found that work was a major stressor across several sectors, including education, healthcare, government and finance.

Economic pressure fuelling mental health problems

Mbele said financial stress is a common factor behind suicidality in all age groups.

“The cost of living is higher, and for many, suicide becomes a perceived way out of financial distress,” he said.

While Discovery’s figures mainly reflect a small segment of the population, those who can afford private insurance.

Mbele said they point to a broader issue affecting people across all income levels.

Shortage of mental health professionals exacerbates crisis

South Africa faces a critical shortage of trained mental health professionals. Studies show there is only one psychologist for every 100 000 people.

Mbele criticised the overall quality of mental health services in both the public and private sectors, saying many professionals lack adequate training.

“There’s a high demand, but the quality of care and training is often poor,” he said.

According to the World Health Organisation, globally, suicide claims the lives of more than 720 000 people each year, and it is the third leading cause of death among those aged 15 to 29.