A young man, reported to have been mentally unstable, allegedly jumped from the sixth floor of Katutura Hospital over the weekend and died instantly in what authorities suspect to be suicide.

In separate incidents over the weekend, two other men died by apparent suicide by hanging themselves, one in Otjomuise in the capital and another in Tsumeb in the Oshikoto Region.

Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Walters Kamaya, confirmed the incident, noting that the deceased was a mentally unstable patient who jumped through a sixth-floor toilet window. He added that the man had previously attempted suicide at home by trying to slash his wrists.

Two more suspected suicide cases were reported. In Otjomuise, 26-year-old Hanhele Lineekela Wedeinge was found hanging from a thorn tree in a riverbed early on Friday morning. In Tsumeb's Kuvukiland location, 51-year-old Heita Thadeus was discovered hanging at his home. The grim scene was discovered by his children, along with a suicide note.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding all three cases.

Mental health experts warn that suicide is not a one-size-fits-all tragedy. Professionals note that personality traits often influence the type of suicide, ranging from impulsive acts to longer contemplated and deliberate means.

These incidents come as Namibia observes Suicide Prevention Month, a period dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging those in distress to seek help. Health authorities have urged communities to look out for signs of emotional struggle among loved ones and prioritise open conversations around mental well-being.

The leading drivers of suicide in Namibia continue to be strained relationships and financial hardships, according to experts.