3.8% of Ghanaian adults have considered suicide – WHO

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that 3.8 per cent of Ghanaian adults have contemplated suicide, while 2.3 per cent have attempted it, underscoring the pressing need for enhanced prevention and support services nationwide. WHO's Country Representative to Ghana, Dr Fiona Braka, made these disclosures during the launch of activities in Accra to commemorate the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day.

Dr Braka mentioned that the 2023 Ghana STEPS Survey indicated that suicidal ideation was prevalent among younger demographics, emphasizing the criticality of targeted interventions. She highlighted that "every suicide is a tragedy that has profound social, emotional, and economic consequences for families, for friends, for workplaces, and for communities.

In Ghana, the recent evidence underscores the necessity of ongoing action." Dr Braka urged for intensified efforts to prevent suicide, especially among young individuals and other vulnerable populations. She also applauded the government and Parliament for decriminalising attempted suicide in March 2023, viewing this as a significant transformation from punitive measures to a more compassionate approach.

Dr Braka stressed that this reform acknowledged suicide and suicidal behavior as public health and mental health issues that demand support, treatment, and respect for human dignity. She appealed to stakeholders to bolster support systems and ensure that those at risk receive the necessary care and protection.