The World Health Organisation (WHO) has disclosed that 3.8 percent of adults in Ghana have considered suicide, while 2.3 percent have made an attempt, raising concerns about the need for stronger prevention and support systems.
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 efforts to prevent suicide, particularly among young people and other vulnerable groups who may face heightened risks.
Dr Braka said findings from the 2023 Ghana STEPS Survey further showed that suicidal thoughts were prevalent among young people.
She said the findings highlighted the need for targeted interventions to identify people at risk early and provide them with appropriate support.
“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 said.
Dr Braka also commended the government and Parliament for decriminalising attempted suicide in March 2023, describing the move as an important step towards addressing suicide as a public health and mental health concern.
According to her, the reform represented a shift away from punishment towards care, compassion and the protection of human dignity.
“This important reform marked a significant shift from punishment to care and compassion, recognising that suicide and suicidal behaviour are public health and mental health concerns that require support, treatment, and protection of human dignity,” she said.
She urged government, health professionals, civil society organisations, communities and other stakeholders to sustain efforts to strengthen support systems for people experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviour.
Dr Braka stressed the need to ensure that individuals at risk receive timely care, treatment and protection rather than being subjected to stigma or punishment.
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