3.8% of Ghanaian adults have considered suicide, 2.3% attempted – WHO

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that 3.8% of adults in Ghana have considered suicide, while 2.3% have attempted it, highlighting the need for stronger measures to prevent suicide and provide support to people at risk.

WHO Country Representative to Ghana, Dr Fiona Braka, disclosed the figures in Accra during the launch of activities to mark the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day.

She called for intensified suicide prevention efforts, particularly among young people and other vulnerable groups, stressing the need to strengthen support systems for those facing mental health challenges.

Dr Braka said findings from the 2023 Ghana STEPS Survey also indicated that suicidal thoughts were prevalent among young people, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address the issue.

“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 highlights the need for continued action,” she added.

The WHO Country Representative also commended the government and Parliament for the decision in March 2023 to decriminalise attempted suicide, describing the reform as an important move away from punishment towards care and compassion.

“This important reform marked a significant shift from punishment to care and compassion, recognising that suicide and suicidal behavior are public health and mental health concerns that require support, treatment, and protection of human dignity,” she said.

Dr Braka urged stakeholders to sustain efforts to strengthen support systems and ensure that people at risk of suicide receive appropriate care, treatment and protection.