ALARMING! Suicide deaths nearly double in six months

On September 10, 2024, 4:40 PM

The Mental Health Authority (MHA) has sounded the alarm over a drastic increase in suicide attempts and completions in Ghana.

In a statement, the authority said Ghana recorded a total of 543 attempted suicides and 81 completed suicides between January and June 2024.

The latest figures represent a significant increase compared to the 594 attempted suicides and 48 completed suicides for the entire year of 2023.

The Greater Accra, Eastern, and Central Regions have been identified as hotspots for suicide attempts.

According to MHA, the Greater Accra Region recorded the highest number of completed suicides.

The authority has therefore called on Ghanaians to be vigilant and seek help, citing the growing concern about suicidal behaviour globally.

The health authority also emphasized that suicide has been decriminalized, urging individuals to prioritize their mental health and well-being.

To mark Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday, the MHA launched an awareness campaign to educate the public about the warning signs of suicide and the importance of seeking help.

The authority also urged individuals to report any suspicious behaviour or suicidal tendencies to the authorities or mental health professionals.

The statistics have sparked widespread concern among health officials, who are urging the public to take immediate action to prevent further tragedies.

Suicide is a major public health challenge, with more than 700,000 deaths each year globally.

Each suicide has far-reaching social, emotional, and economic consequences, and deeply affects individuals and communities worldwide.

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), marked each year on 10 September, is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO).

The purpose of this day is to raise awareness around the globe that suicide can be prevented.

The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with the call to action “Start the Conversation”.

This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides.

Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how people perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.