A disturbing trend of increasing suicide cases has been revealed by the Mental Health Authority (MHA), with 83 deaths and 543 attempts recorded nationwide in the first half of this year.
This statistics represents a significant rise compared to 2023, which saw 48 deaths and 594 attempts for the entire year.
The Greater Accra, Eastern, and Central regions have been identified as hotspots for attempted suicides, with Greater Accra recording the most completed suicide incidents.
Marking the World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) with a symposium in Accra on Tuesday September 10, 2024 under the theme “Changing the narrative on suicide with a call to action; Start the conversation,” MHA raised awareness about the importance of reducing the stigma and encouraged open conversations to prevent suicides.
Commemorated every September 10, the three-year running theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides.
Professor Pinaman Appau, CEO of the MHA, highlighted a rising trend of suicidal behaviors among males compared to females. A recent study also found a high prevalence of suicidal thoughts, planning, and attempts among Junior High students, emphasizing the need for greater attention to this vulnerable group.
Citing a recent study by Azazu and Joe, 2023, Prof. Appau said the threat was also prevalent among adolescents particularly Junior High students which calls for greater attention to be paid to such groups.
“The study found a prevalence of 20.4 per cent of suicidal thoughts, 23.4 per cent for suicide planning and 28.4 per cent for actual suicide attempts among junior and senior high school students.
Alarmingly, the prevalence was reported to be higher in Junior High school students compared to those in Senior High Schools.”
Professor Appau called for collective efforts in prioritizing mental health, where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness. She emphasized the importance of open conversations, support, and understanding in preventing suicides.
Madam Estelle Appiah, Board Chairperson of the MHA, noted that while decriminalizing suicide is a positive step, the current language of the amendment may perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
The MHA is taking steps to correct this anomaly and provide comprehensive assessments and support for those who attempt suicide.
“Unfortunately, the language of the amendment of the Criminal Offences Amendment Act, 2023 Act 1092 section 57.2 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 to provide that a person who attempts suicide shall be conclusively considered to have severe mental disorder and the provision of the Mental Health Act, 2012 Act 846 shall apply is not technically correct.
While the intention behind the provision may be to ensure persons receive necessary support, it inadvertently oversimplifies the complex factors that contribute to suicide attempts perpetuating harmful stereotypes and takes nuance in understanding the varying circumstances and motivations behind attempted suicide.”
The MHA urges the community to raise awareness, break down taboos, and start conversations about mental health and suicide. By working together, we can make progress in preventing suicide and promoting mental well-being.
