The World Health Organisation (WHO) says 3.8 percent of adults in Ghana have considered suicide, while 2.3 percent have attempted it, highlighting the need to strengthen suicide prevention efforts across the country.
WHO Country Representative to Ghana, Dr Fiona Braka, disclosed this in Accra during the launch of activities marking the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day.
She called for intensified efforts to prevent suicide, particularly among young people and other vulnerable groups.
She said findings from the 2023 Ghana STEPS Survey indicated that suicidal thoughts were prevalent among young people, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address the risk and strengthen suicide prevention efforts.
“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.
Dr Braka also commended the government and Parliament for the decision in March 2023 to decriminalise attempted suicide, describing it as a significant step towards shifting the response from punishment to care, support 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.
She urged stakeholders to strengthen support systems and ensure that people at risk of suicide have access to appropriate care, protection and support.