"Strategies to Avert Youth Suicide"
World urges concerted efforts to combat growing suicide rates amongst adolescents
A disturbing statistic released by the World Health Organisation reveals that someone dies by suicide every 40 seconds globally, making it a pressing concern that requires all nations to offer support for prevention efforts. Fortunately, suicide prevention can be attainable through timely, evidence-based interventions.
On Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10, Ghana joined other nations to acknowledge the occasion with the theme: 'A renewed worldwide commitment to prevent suicides: Creating hope through action'. The commemoration also marks September as Suicide Prevention month, aimed at increasing awareness, tackling the stigma around suicide, and providing support.
Ghana's unique situation necessitates an all-inclusive approach beyond advocacy by a few non-governmental organisations, as its residents grapple with high levels of stress. The laws and mental health system must be responsive and equipped to address the issue effectively.
Young people and suicide
Experts highlight that suicide is one of the leading causes of death for children, adolescents, and young adults aged 15 to 24 years. They underscore that the majority of children and adolescents who attempt suicide have a significant mental health disorder, often depression.
Transitioning through adolescence can be a challenging period, influenced by rapid physical, psychological, and emotional changes. Strong feelings of stress, fear, confusion, and anxiety associated with these changes can impact a teenager's academic performance and self-worth. While some adolescents may manage the transition smoothly, others might find it overwhelming.
Some adolescents face additional challenges, such as family issues like divorce, financial problems, sibling rivalry, moving towns, and changes in friend groups, which worsen their emotional state. Bullying, access to guns, drugs, and the inability to cope with peer pressure further complicate matters.
Suicide in Ghana
Data gathered by the Ghana Mental Health Authority shows that 902 cases of suicide were reported in 2021, while the figure stood at 777 in 2020. These numbers are considered alarming, with most cases unreported due to fear of stigma. The Ghana Mental Health Authority is deeply concerned by this concerning trend and has called for increased advocacy and action from organisations and institutions.
Suicide and a cry for help
From a human behavioural perspective, suicide could be a desperate plea for help. While depression, stress, and anxiety are risk factors for suicide, it could represent a point of hopeless desperation – the inability to cope with challenges or changes perceived as death sentences rather than stepping stones or opportunities for growth.
Given the myriad challenges faced by adolescents and young adults, it is vital that they have access to the necessary information to make informed choices. Suicide might be an expression of the inner desperate cry for help to navigate the transition.
The need for support
Parents, teachers, counsellors, and psychologists should strive to build their capacity to offer emotional, mental, and spiritual support to adolescents, enabling them to develop their independent problem-solving and coping skills. Furthermore, organisations and communities should establish safe spaces and support networks to help adolescents deal with the challenges associated with puberty and susceptibility to suicidal tendencies.
Discovery Teen Magazine & Foundation, a non-profit organisation committed to mentoring and empowering adolescents, is essential for this cause. Focusing on educational programmes and dialogues, the foundation equips adolescents with the knowledge to make informed choices and helps parents, teachers, and policy-makers offer appropriate support during the transitional period.
Spotting warning signs of suicide
When a teen attempts suicide, their family, friends, school, and entire community are affected. The reasons behind a teen's suicidal thoughts may be complex, but recognising warning signs can help.
Common signs include verbal statements like "I wish I was dead", or "Very soon, I won't be a problem or burden for anyone". Engaging in activities like songs, books, music, or films about death can also serve as warning signs. Other warning signs associated with suicide are withdrawal from friends and family, changes in routine, increased secrecy, and self-destructive behaviour.
Professional help
Depression and suicidal feelings are treatable mental health issues. Affected adolescents need to have their illness recognised and diagnosed by professionals and offered appropriate treatment. It is essential to have open and non-judgmental conversations about suicidal thoughts and seek professional help.
Helplines for assistance
The Ghana Mental Health Authority offers temporary helplines across the country staffed by trained personnel, providing invaluable support for those dealing with suicidal behaviours. They are taking steps to decriminalise suicide attempts in Ghanaian laws, as a punitive law does not solve the problem.
National helpline numbers: 020-000-9997, 020-681-4666, and 050-344-4793.
Regional helpline numbers can be found based on location.
Upon noticing warning signs, it is essential to approach the situation with compassion and seek professional help. There is always hope, and your life is valuable!
Founder and Communication Specialist, Discovery Teen Magazine and Foundation can be reached at [email protected]
- To combat the growing suicide rates amongst adolescents in Ghana, there is a need for timely, evidence-based interventions that are grounded in solid policy and bolstered by a responsive legal system and mental health system.
- In light of the concerning trend of suicide amongst adolescents in Ghana, it is crucial that parents, teachers, and mental health professionals build their capacity to offer emotional, mental, and spiritual support, enabling teenagers to develop their independent problem-solving and coping skills.
- Recognising the warning signs of suicide in adolescents, such as verbal statements about death or self-destructive behavior, is vital for the community to approach the situation with compassion and seek professional help without judgment.
