HEARTBREAKING AS FATHER DROWNS HIS TWO DAUGHTERS, COMMITS SUICIDE

A 30 year old Ugandan man, John Zabayo drowned his two daughters in a water dam, before he took his own life in Mubende District of the country.  the rate at which people commits suicide this days is alarming.

There’s no single reason why someone may try to take their own life, but certain factors can increase the risk. Someone may be more likely to attempt suicide if they have a mental health disorder. About 90 percent of people who commit suicide have a mental illness at the time of their death. Depression is the top risk factor, but there are various other mental health disorders that can contribute to suicide, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

The police recovered two bodies of children allegedly drowned by their father in a water dam before he took his own life. Authorities identified the girls as Shifa Byamukama, 4, and Zabaayo Jackline, 2, both residents of Kyakadali village, Bageza Sub-county in Mubende District. Police also found the body of the victims’ father lying a few meters from the dam where their bodies were recovered.

Mubende District Police Commander, Mr Martin Okoyo said they have launched investigations into their death as they wait for postmortem reports from Mubende Regional Referral Hospital where the bodies were taken on Tuesday. Mr John Mary Viviane, the LC1 Chairperson of the village told a reporter that Zabayo had been miserable ever since his wife separated with him and abandoned the children.

“We believe that Zabayo decided to drown the two children before taking his own life given what he’s been through. He has had a troubled experience. It is unfortunate that he did not come to us for advice,” he said.

Aside from mental illnesses, there are several risk factors that may contribute to thoughts of suicide, attempted suicide, and actual suicide. They include:

*  Previous suicide attempts
*  Substance abuse
*  Incarceration
*  Family history of suicide
*  Poor job security or low levels of job satisfaction
*  History of being abused or witnessing continuous abuse
*  Being diagnosed with a serious medical condition, such as cancer or HIV
*  Being socially isolated or a victim of bullying
*  Being exposed to suicidal behavior

People who have suicidal thoughts are often so overwhelmed by feelings of sadness and hopelessness that they think they have no other option. While it can be hard to know how someone is feeling on the inside, there are various behaviors that can indicate suicidal tendencies. It’s important to recognize these warning signs so you can help a family member or a friend who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Taking action and getting someone the help they need may help prevent a tragic suicide attempt or death.