The long-term effects of childhood sexual abuse are devastating and carry long-term psychological effects such as depression and self-neglect.

Victims of sexual violence have thus been encouraged to speak out and seek help before harming themselves.

Gobasen |Uiras, a 24-year-old sexual violence survivor, describes it as a "grooming phase." Gobasen first suffered molestation at the hands of her perpetrator, which led to rape when she was in Grade 4.

Health and Social Services Minister Dr. Kalumbi Shangula says his ministry is ready to extend its services to those in need, as suicide statistics over the past year paint a grim picture of depression in Namibia.

The number of deaths by suicide and suicide attempts is on the rise.

Of the 623 cases recorded over the past year, including teens and minors, 82% are male.

Dr. Shangula says the rising suicide rate can, to a large extent, be explained by untreated mental health conditions.