The Psychological Well being Authority (MHA) has sounded the alarm over a drastic improve in suicide makes an attempt and completions in Ghana.
In an announcement, the authority mentioned Ghana recorded a complete of 543 tried suicides and 81 accomplished suicides between January and June 2024.
The newest figures characterize a major improve in comparison with the 594 tried suicides and 48 accomplished suicides for your complete 12 months of 2023.
The Better Accra, Japanese, and Central Areas have been recognized as hotspots for suicide makes an attempt.
In response to MHA, the Better Accra Area recorded the very best variety of accomplished suicides.
The authority has due to this fact referred to as on Ghanaians to be vigilant and search assist, citing the rising concern about suicidal behaviour globally.
The well being authority additionally emphasised that suicide has been decriminalized, urging people to prioritize their psychological well being and well-being.
To mark Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday, the MHA launched an consciousness marketing campaign to coach the general public concerning the warning indicators of suicide and the significance of looking for assist.
The authority additionally urged people to report any suspicious behaviour or suicidal tendencies to the authorities or psychological well being professionals.
The statistics have sparked widespread concern amongst well being officers, who’re urging the general public to take quick motion to stop additional tragedies.
Suicide is a significant public well being problem, with greater than 700,000 deaths every year globally.
Every suicide has far-reaching social, emotional, and financial penalties, and deeply impacts people and communities worldwide.
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), marked every year on 10 September, is organized by the Worldwide Affiliation for Suicide Prevention (IASP) at the side of the World Well being Group (WHO).
The aim of this present day is to boost consciousness across the globe that suicide will be prevented.
The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026 is “Altering the Narrative on Suicide” with the decision to motion “Begin the Dialog”.
This theme goals to boost consciousness concerning the significance of lowering stigma and inspiring open conversations to stop suicides.
Altering the narrative on suicide is about remodeling how folks understand this advanced challenge and shifting from a tradition of silence and stigma to one in every of openness, understanding, and assist.