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Groves S, Lascelles K, Hawton K. Suicidal thoughts and behaviours among student nurses and midwives: A systematic review. J Adv Nurs 2024; 80:2202-2213. [PMID: 38010816 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM To synthesize research investigating suicide, suicide attempts, self-harm and suicide ideation in nursing and midwifery students, a group of interest due to high rates of suicide among qualified nurses. Specific areas of interest for this review included prevalence, factors which may contribute to or mitigate risk and suicide prevention interventions. DESIGN A systematic review was conducted, and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. DATA SOURCES Three electronic databases were searched, and additional articles identified using hand-searching. Studies were included if they examined suicide, suicide attempts, self-harm or suicide ideation in nursing or midwifery students. REVIEW METHODS Studies were deduplicated and assessed for inclusion. Data from included studies were extracted, quality of studies assessed and data synthesized, informed by study focus, design and assessed quality. RESULTS About 46 studies of largely moderate to low quality were identified. A high-quality study demonstrated increased risk of suicide in Swedish female nursing students, and increased risk of self-harm in nursing students of both sexes. Prevalence of suicide ideation did not appear to differ across course year, or between nursing students and students on other programmes. Psychiatric conditions, particularly depression, were associated with suicide ideation. Three studies related to suicide prevention interventions were identified. Integration of wellness initiatives into the curriculum and peer support were preferred interventions among nursing students and teaching staff. CONCLUSIONS To understand the extent of suicide and self-harm among nursing and midwifery students there is a need for further epidemiological research stratified by programme of study. To develop prevention interventions and initiatives for nursing students, high-quality longitudinal studies should examine characteristics associated with suicide and self-harm. IMPACT Current findings suggest interventions could include support for students experiencing mental health difficulties, foster peer support, and help develop wellness. No patient or public contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Groves
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Karen Lascelles
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Keith Hawton
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Suicide Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Ndetei DM, Wasserman D, Mutiso V, Shanley JR, Musyimi C, Nyamai P, Munyua T, Swahn MH, Osborn TL, Johnson NE, Memiah P, Bhui K, Gilbert S, Weisz JR, Javed A, Sourander A. Methods and associations of suicidality in Kenyan high school students: clinical and public health implications. BJPsych Open 2024; 10:e112. [PMID: 38738349 PMCID: PMC11094434 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2024.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most evidence on suicidal thoughts, plans and attempts comes from Western countries; prevalence rates may differ in other parts of the world. AIMS This study determined the prevalence of suicidal thoughts, plans and attempts in high school students in three different regional settings in Kenya. METHOD This was a cross-sectional study of 2652 high school students. We asked structured questions to determine the prevalence of various types of suicidality, the methods planned or effected, and participants' gender, age and form (grade level). We provided descriptive statistics, testing significant differences by chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests, and used logistic regression to identify relationships among different variables and their associations with suicidality. RESULTS The prevalence rates of suicidal thoughts, plans and attempts were 26.8, 14.9 and 15.7%, respectively. These rates are higher than those reported for Western countries. Some 6.7% of suicide attempts were not associated with plans. The most common method used in suicide attempts was drinking chemicals/poison (18.8%). Rates of suicidal thoughts and plans were higher for older students and students in urban rather than rural locations, and attempts were associated with female gender and higher grade level - especially the final year of high school, when exam performance affects future education and career prospects. CONCLUSION Suicidal thoughts, plans and attempts are prevalent in Kenyan high school students. There is a need for future studies to determine the different starting points to suicidal attempts, particularly for the significant number whose attempts are not preceded by thoughts and plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Ndetei
- Africa Mental Health Research and Training Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Psychiatry, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya; and World Psychiatric Association Collaborating Centre for Research and Training, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Victoria Mutiso
- Africa Mental Health Research and Training Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya; and World Psychiatric Association Collaborating Centre for Research and Training, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Christine Musyimi
- Africa Mental Health Research and Training Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya; and World Psychiatric Association Collaborating Centre for Research and Training, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Pascalyne Nyamai
- Africa Mental Health Research and Training Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya; and World Psychiatric Association Collaborating Centre for Research and Training, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Timothy Munyua
- Africa Mental Health Research and Training Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya; and World Psychiatric Association Collaborating Centre for Research and Training, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Monica H. Swahn
- Department of Health Promotion and Physical Education, Wellstar College of Health and Human Services, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, USA
| | | | - Natalie E. Johnson
- Shamiri Institute, Nairobi, Kenya; Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Kamaldeep Bhui
- Department of Psychiatry, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, Wadham College, University of Oxford, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre; Oxford, UK; and World Psychiatric Association Collaborating Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Sonja Gilbert
- Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; and INVEST Child Psychiatry, INVEST Research Flagship Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - John R. Weisz
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Afzal Javed
- World Psychiatric Association, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andre Sourander
- Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; INVEST Child Psychiatry, INVEST Research Flagship Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; and Department of Child Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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Adoboi F, Mohammed A, Duodu PA, Aboagye RG, Seidu AA, Wongnaah FG, Ahinkorah BO. Sex-related inequalities in crude and age-standardized suicide rates: trends in Ghana from 2000 to 2019. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1070. [PMID: 38632578 PMCID: PMC11022425 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18516-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide represents a major public health concern, affecting a significant portion of individuals. However, there remains a gap in understanding the age and sex disparities in the occurrence of suicide. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the sex-related inequalities in suicide rates in Ghana from 2000 to 2019. METHODS We utilized data from the WHO Health Equity Assessment Toolkit (HEAT) online software. We analysed sex differences in both crude and age-standardized suicide rates in Ghana spanning from 2000 to 2019. Crude and age-adjusted suicide rates were calculated based on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) definition and coding of suicide mortality. We measured inequality in terms of sex. Two inequality indicators were used to examine the suicide rates: the difference (D) and the ratio (R). RESULTS Age-standardized and crude suicide rates in Ghana were higher among men from 2000 to 2019. Between 2000 and 2007, the age-standardized suicide rate for women rose steadily and declined slightly between 2008 and 2019. Age-standardized suicide rates for men increased consistently from 2000 to 2010, then declined steadily from 2011 to 2019. The crude suicide rates among men and women followed similar patterns. The widest absolute inequality in crude suicide rates (D) was recorded in 2013 (D=-11.91), while the smallest difference was observed in 2000 (D=-7.16). We also found the greatest disparity in age-standardized rates in 2011 (D=-21.46) and the least in 2000 (D=-14.32). The crude suicide rates increased with age for both men and women aged 15-54 years and 55-85+ years respectively. However, the increased rate was higher in men than in women across all age groups surveyed. A similar pattern was observed for relative inequality in both crude and age-standardized rates of suicide. CONCLUSION The suicide rate in Ghana has declined over time. Suicide is more common among older men. Inequalities in suicide rates, in both absolute and relative terms, are similar. There is a need to monitor suicide trends in Ghana, especially among older men. Moreover, the findings could serve as a basis for future studies on suicide in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faustina Adoboi
- Cape Coast Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Aliu Mohammed
- Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Precious Adade Duodu
- Department of Nursing, School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Queensgate, Huddersfield, England, UK
| | - Richard Gyan Aboagye
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, 2052, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Department of Family and Community Health, Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana.
| | - Abdul-Aziz Seidu
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, 4811, Queensland, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Gender and Advocacy, Takoradi Technical University, Takoradi, P.O. Box 256, Ghana
- REMS Consultancy Services Limited, Sekondi-Takoradi, Western Region, Ghana
| | | | - Bright Opoku Ahinkorah
- REMS Consultancy Services Limited, Sekondi-Takoradi, Western Region, Ghana
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Karakaya D, Özparlak A, Önder M. Suicide literacy in nurses: A cross-sectional study. J Clin Nurs 2023; 32:115-125. [PMID: 34985161 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES This study is a cross-sectional study aiming to determine the suicide literacy level of nurses and to examine the relationship between nurses' suicide literacy and certain variables. BACKGROUND Suicide literacy in nurses is a factor which affects knowledge levels. The level of suicide literacy in nurses may affect the care given to patients and the behaviour of obtaining help in relation to themselves. METHODS The study was conducted with 348 nurses between January and March 2020 at a hospital in the city of Antalya in Turkey. A personal information form and the Literacy of Suicide Scale (LOSS) were used to collect data. Descriptive statistical methods were used in data analysis. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine the predictors of suicide literacy. The STROBE checklist was followed for this cross-sectional study. RESULTS The nurses' mean score on LOSS was 11.08 ± 3.92. Significant predictors of suicide literacy in nurses were being single, working in the emergency department, having previous experience in the psychiatry clinic, not having a mental illness, having suicide attempts in the family, having previously obtained information on intervention on individuals at risk of suicide and stating that their sources of information on this topic were nursing education and the Internet. These variables explained 19.8% of the variance in suicide literacy. CONCLUSIONS The nurses' suicide literacy was at a low level. It is recommended that education programs on the care of patients at risk of suicide be set up for all nurses working in general clinics. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE It is important to raise the levels of suicide literacy in nurses in order to provide better quality care to patients who are at risk of suicide. Also, raising levels of suicide literacy may strengthen nurses' behaviours in seeking help for themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dudu Karakaya
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Akdeniz University Faculty of Nursing, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Arif Özparlak
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Akdeniz University Faculty of Nursing, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Merve Önder
- Anesthesia and Reanimation Intensive Care Unit, Ministry of Health Isparta City Hospital, Isparta, Turkey
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Yunitasari E, Yusuf A, Aditya RS, Acob JRU, Solikhah FK, Alrazeeni DM. Nursing Students Facilitating the Transition from Suicidal Ideation to Action in the Rural: A Qualitative Study. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2023; 19:171-180. [PMID: 36698698 PMCID: PMC9869691 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s387362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to increase understanding of the process of nursing students at risk of completing suicide attempts that facilitates the transition from suicidal ideation to action. And The Central Bureau of Statistics, there were 812 suicide cases throughout Indonesia. METHODS The qualitative research involved 15 nursing students who were selected purposively. data collection in rural East Java Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the Colaizzi phenomenological method. RESULTS We identified six main themes; 1 (the dimension of individual history). 2 (socio-cultural dimension) describes the problems experienced by nursing students on campus and off campus. 3 (interpersonal dimension). 4 (intrapersonal dimension); Factors of family conflict, peer conflict, and psychiatric and/or medical disorders. 5 (emotional dimension). 6. (be a good listener). CONCLUSION The intrapersonal element is the most influential catalyst in the progression from suicidal ideation to action. As prospective targets for preventive interventions and practices with nursing students at risk of suicide, our findings suggest the need for specific measures addressing freshman recruitment during selection for faculty, emotional dysregulation, and feelings of invalidity and entrapment. Nursing students need intrapersonal training. Being a good listener for all students, lecturers and staff is important to create a support system for suicide prevention in the nursing environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esti Yunitasari
- Department of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Ah Yusuf
- Department of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Ronal Surya Aditya
- Department of Public Health, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia
| | - Joel Rey U Acob
- Department of Nursing, Visayas State University, Visayas, Philippines
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NURSE: Five Micropractices to Reduce Stress. JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY NURSING 2022; 41:352-356. [PMID: 36311272 PMCID: PMC9595406 DOI: 10.1016/j.jradnu.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The Coronavirus pandemic affected patients' health and heightened stress among the frontline caregivers, especially radiology nurses. Although there is literature on the effects of stress on nurses, there is a gap on interventions to mitigate the impact of stress. There are evidence-based mindful interventions to maintain balance in stressful situations and reduce perceived stress in sports, neuroscience, and positive psychology. Studies show that even brief periods of self-care reduce stress and cortisol levels. Nurses work long hours and have personal, family, and community responsibilities. Nurses may not have the luxury of extra time to devote to self-care. Therefore, this essay summarizes what stress does to the body; the tangible and intangible costs associated with unmanaged stress among nurses. Five self-care micropractices requiring no additional time called NURSE are offered. When practiced consistently, these micropractices can enhance nurses' well-being, leading to the retention of nursing talent and improved patient care.
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Ciydem E, Bilgin H. The moderating role of resilience in the relationship between peer pressure and risky behaviors among nursing students. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2022; 58:355-363. [PMID: 33861479 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the moderating role of resilience in the relationship between peer pressure and risky behaviors among nursing students. DESIGN AND METHODS A cross-sectional correlational study carried out with 512 students. FINDINGS The mean age was 20.90 ± 1.66. Of the students, 82.4% were females 99.0% were single, 71.5% had moderate socioeconomic status. While peer pressure directly made an effect on whole subdimensions for risky behaviors (p < 0.001), resilience had an effect on antisocial behavior, dropout, eating habits, and suicidal tendency (p < 0.001). Moderation was supported as the relationship between peer pressure and substance use varied by resilience level (p < 0.001). PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Students with high levels of resilience are less prone to exhibit some risky behaviors based on peer pressure. Resilience-building strategies should be incorporated into the curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Ciydem
- Department of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Florence Nightingale Nursing Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hulya Bilgin
- Department of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Florence Nightingale Nursing Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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Crispim MDO, Santos CMRD, Frazão IDS, Frazão CMFDQ, Albuquerque RCRD, Perrelli JGA. Prevalence of suicidal behavior in young university students: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2021; 29:e3495. [PMID: 34755776 PMCID: PMC8584877 DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.5320.3495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to identify the prevalence of suicidal behavior in young university students. METHOD a systematic review with meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies based on the Joanna Briggs Institute proposal, and carried out in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO and LILACS databases and in the Brazilian Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations, with no language or year restrictions. A total of 2,942 publications were identified. Selection, data extraction and methodological evaluation of the studies were performed by two independent researchers. The meta-analysis was performed considering the random effects model. RESULTS eleven articles were included in this review. The prevalence variation for suicidal ideation was from 9.7% to 58.3% and, for attempted suicide, it was from 0.7% to 14.7%. The meta-analysis showed a 27.1% prevalence for suicidal ideation in life, 14.1% for ideation in the last year, and 3.1% for attempted suicide in life. CONCLUSION the high prevalence of suicidal behavior, even with the considerable heterogeneity of the studies, raises the need to implement interventions aimed at preventing suicide and promoting mental health, especially in the academic environment.
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Borderline Personality Symptoms: What Not to Be Overlooked When Approaching Suicidal Ideation among University Students. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9101399. [PMID: 34683078 PMCID: PMC8535964 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9101399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Suicidal ideation is a serious condition antecedent to suicidal attempts and is highly related not only to depression but also other psychosocial factors. This study aimed to examine the predictive effects of these potential factors for suicidal ideation among young adult university students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of university students in Thailand. An online questionnaire employed the perceived stress scale-10 (PSS-10), the patient health questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8), the multidimensional scale of perceived social support (MSPSS), and a screening instrument for borderline personality disorder. An ordinal regression analysis was applied to determine the predictive effects of the independent variables. Of 336 students, the mean age was 20.26 ± 1.3 years, 80.4% of whom were female; 14.3% had suicidal ideation. The significant predictors of suicidal thoughts were perceived stress (AOR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.22); depressive symptoms (AOR 1.16, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.22); borderline personality symptoms (AOR 1.19, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.40); and perceived social support (AOR 0.97, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.00). Not only did depressive symptoms contribute to suicidal ideation but they also constituted important variables. Therefore, they should be included in intervention plans to prevent suicidality among university students.
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Mental health difficulties, coping mechanisms and support systems among school-going adolescents in Ghana: A mixed-methods study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250424. [PMID: 33886671 PMCID: PMC8062044 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although adolescents are highly vulnerable to mental health challenges, they receive little attention, especially in developing countries. We investigated the mental health difficulties (MHDs) faced by adolescent students in four senior high schools in Ghana, their coping strategies and support systems. METHODS In this convergent mixed-methods study, quantitative data was obtained using validated strengths and difficulties questionnaire to assess the mental health of 405 adolescents. Qualitative data was collected through in-depth interview with 18 teachers and seven focused group discussions with 35 students. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) for MHDs were estimated through ordinal logistic regression in Stata 14.2. Qualitative data was analyzed inductively and deductively using ATLAS.ti 7.1. RESULTS Over half (58.5%) experienced peer (20.5%), emotional (16.3%), conduct (13.3%) and hyperactivity (3.0%) problems, whereas 5.4% exhibited prosocial behaviours. MHDs were associated with females (OR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.47-3.50), bullying (OR = 1.72, CI: 1.07-2.75), domestic violence (OR = 1.87, CI: 1.10-3.17), substance abuse (OR = 8.14, CI: 1.41-46.8), academic pressure (OR = 2.40, CI: 1.30-4.42) and self-perceived poor school performance (OR = 7.36 CI: 2.83-19.16). Qualitatively, we identified financial challenges, spiritual influences, intimate relationships, bullying, and domestic violence as the main themes attributed to MHDs. Coping strategies included isolation, substance use and spiritual help. The main school-based support system was the guidance and counselling unit, but there were complaints of it been ineffective due to trust and confidentially issues, and non-engagement of qualified counsellors. CONCLUSIONS As many triggers of MHDs emanate in schools, we need mental health-friendly school environments where trained psychotherapists head counselling centres. We propose incorporating mental health education into school curricula and generating surveillance data on adolescent's mental health.
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Suicidal ideation and associated factors among school-going adolescents in rural Ghana. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-01378-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSuicidal ideation is a critical risk for attempted suicide and eventual suicide. Little is known about suicidal ideation among rural adolescents in most sub-Saharan African countries. We aimed to estimate the 12-month prevalence of suicidal ideation and to describe some of the common and gender-specific associated factors among in-school adolescents in rural Ghana. We conducted a cross-sectional survey involving a random sample of 1101 in-school adolescents aged 10–19 years in a rural district in Eastern Ghana. The Suicidal Behavior Questionnaire-Revised was used to assess suicidal ideation. Overall, 25.1% participants (95% CI = 22.5–27.7), representing 28.3% females (95% CI = 24.7–32.2) and 21.5% males (95% CI = 18.0–25.2) reported suicidal ideation during the previous 12 months. Females who experienced personal and interpersonal adversities mainly outside the family context were likely to report suicidal ideation, while suicidal ideation among males was associated with conflict with parents. Regardless of gender, adolescents who reported exposure to a friend’s attempted suicide were about two times more likely to report suicidal ideation. The prevalence of suicidal ideation among adolescents in rural Ghana compares with in-school estimates from other countries within sub-Saharan Africa, but also underscores the need for targeted and universal prevention programmes and intervention efforts to mitigate the potential transition from suicidal ideations to suicidal attempts and eventual deaths by suicide among rural adolescents.
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Tetteh J, Ekem-Ferguson G, Swaray SM, Kugbey N, Quarshie ENB, Yawson AE. Marijuana use and repeated attempted suicide among senior high school students in Ghana: Evidence from the WHO Global School-Based Student Health Survey, 2012. Gen Psychiatr 2020; 33:e100311. [PMID: 33195989 PMCID: PMC7607604 DOI: 10.1136/gpsych-2020-100311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The association between substance use including marijuana use and attempted suicide has been well documented. However, little is known about marijuana use and its association with attempted suicide repetition among young people in low-income and middle-income contexts. Aims This analysis was conducted to assess the factors associated with marijuana use and ascertain marijuana use as a determinant of repeated attempted suicide among senior high school (SHS) students in Ghana. Methods Data from the 2012 Global School-Based Student Health Survey in Ghana was used for this study. Modified Poisson, Logistic and Probit models weighted with Mahalanobis distance matching within propensity calliper were employed separately to determine the hypothetical association between marijuana use and repeated attempted suicide. All analysis was performed using Stata 16 and p≤0.05 was deemed statistically significant. Results The prevalence estimates of marijuana use and repeated attempted suicide among SHS students in Ghana were 3.4% (95% CI: 2.3 to 5.1) and 11.5% (95% CI: 9.1 to 14.4), respectively. The prevalence of marijuana use was significantly associated with school grade, smoking exposure, parent smoker, alcohol intake and truancy. Marijuana use was positively associated with repeated attempted suicide among SHS in Ghana (φ correlation=0.23, p<0.001). Repeated attempted suicide among students who use marijuana was approximately threefold and fivefold significant compared with non-marijuana use students, based on the Poisson (adjusted prevalence ratio: 3.02; 95% CI: 1.67 to 5.43, p<0.001) and Logistic (adjusted OR:5.06; 95% CI: 3.19 to 11.64, p<0.001) estimates respectively. Also, the Probit model showed that marijuana use significantly increased the log count of repeated attempted suicide by 95% (aβ: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.49 to 1.41, p<0.001). Conclusion Marijuana use does not only influence the onset of suicidal attempts but also repeated attempted suicide among SHS students in Ghana. Special attention is required for suicide attempters with a history of repeated attempts and current marijuana use among SHS students in Ghana. Early identification of the potential risk and protective factors is recommended to inform school-based interventions. National level structured school-based substance abuse interventions and health promotion programmes would be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Tetteh
- Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - George Ekem-Ferguson
- Department of Psychiatry, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Nuworza Kugbey
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Ghana College of Humanities, Accra, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Alfred Edwin Yawson
- Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Abstract
Background: Despite recent media reports showing disturbing trends of police suicides in Ghana, no published studies are available from the country. Aims: We sought to estimate the prevalence and describe some of the correlates of suicidal behaviors among police officers in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Method: We surveyed a convenience sample of 268 police officers, using the Suicide Behavior Questionnaire-Revised to assess suicidal ideation, planning, threat, and attempt. Results: Whereas lifetime suicidal ideation (28%), planning (3%), threat (21.6%), and 12-month suicidal ideation (26.9%) were reported, no participating police officer reported ever attempting suicide. Moonlighting showed the strongest statistically significant association with 12-month suicidal ideation, while age, marital status, and job satisfaction also emerged as statistically significant correlates of suicidal ideation. Limitations: The busy nature of police work precluded random selection. The criminalized and tabooed status of attempted suicide in Ghana might have led participants to provide guarded and socially desirable responses. Conclusion: Intervention efforts are needed to prevent the onset of suicidal ideation and possible transition to suicide among police officers in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, UK.,Centre for Suicide and Violence Research (CSVR), Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Francis Annor
- Centre for Suicide and Violence Research (CSVR), Accra, Ghana.,Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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14
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Owusu-Ansah FE, Addae AA, Peasah BO, Oppong Asante K, Osafo J. Suicide among university students: prevalence, risks and protective factors. Health Psychol Behav Med 2020; 8:220-233. [PMID: 34040869 PMCID: PMC8114407 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2020.1766978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Research evidence on suicide in Ghana so far has focused mostly on suicide in the adult population and less work on the younger population such as university students and other vulnerable groups such as children, youth and the aged. Aims: This study was conducted to determine lifetime and current prevalence of suicidal ideation or attempts and identify the associated risks and protective factors among university students in Ghana. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, 1003 university students (507 males and 496 females) with a mean age of 20.5 years (SD = 5.95) were administered questionnaires that measured suicide, psychological distress, self-esteem and subjective wellbeing. Results: We found the following prevalence rates of suicidal behaviours: ideations 15.2%, attempted 6.3%, death wishes 24.3% and suicidal plan 6.8%. Psychological distress was a risk factor for both suicidal ideation and suicidal attempt. Subjective wellbeing was protective of suicide attempt while self-esteem was protective of suicidal ideation. Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for school-based mental health-promoting programmes that enhance young people's self-esteem, reduce psychological distress and boost subjective wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Emily Owusu-Ansah
- Counselling Centre, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.,Department of Behavioural Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Akua Afriyie Addae
- Counselling Centre, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Kwaku Oppong Asante
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Psychology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Joseph Osafo
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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15
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Quarshie ENB, Waterman MG, House AO. Prevalence of self-harm among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender adolescents: a comparison of personal and social adversity with a heterosexual sample in Ghana. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:271. [PMID: 32493429 PMCID: PMC7271418 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05111-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to estimate the prevalence of self-reported self-harm among adolescents identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) in Ghana, and compare self-reported personal and social adversities related to self-harm in this group to those in a random sample of heterosexual adolescents from the same locality. RESULTS A total of 444 adolescents aged 13-21 years, comprising 74 LGBT adolescents and 370 heterosexual adolescents, provided data. The lifetime prevalence estimate of self-harm was higher in the LGBT group (47%) than the heterosexual group (23%). The LGBT group reported a higher rate of self-harm during the previous 12 months (45%), compared to the heterosexual group (18%). LGBT adolescents reported more alcohol and substance use and more personal social adversities, including various forms of victimisation, than heterosexual adolescents. They were no more likely to report difficulty in making and keeping friends or schoolwork problems than were heterosexual adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Allan O House
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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16
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Self-harm with suicidal and non-suicidal intent in young people in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:234. [PMID: 32408896 PMCID: PMC7222461 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02587-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-harm, whether attributed to suicidal or non-suicidal motives, is associated with several poor outcomes in young people, including eventual suicide. Much of our understanding of self-harm in young people is based on literature from Europe (particularly, the UK), North America, and Australia. We aimed to synthesise the available evidence on prevalence, the commonly reported self-harm methods, correlates, risk and protective factors, and reasons for self-harm, in adolescents (aged 10-25 years) in sub-Saharan Africa. METHOD We searched MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, African Journals OnLine, and African Index Medicus for records from 1950 through August 2019, without language restrictions. We supplemented the database searches by searching relevant portals for postgraduate theses, reference harvesting, contacting authors for unpublished studies, and hand searching relevant print sources. We applied narrative synthesis to the evidence. RESULTS Seventy-four studies from 18 sub-Saharan African countries met the inclusion criteria. The median lifetime prevalence estimate was 10·3% (interquartile range [IQR] 4·6% - 16·1%); median 12-month prevalence estimate was 16·9% (IQR: 11·5% - 25·5%); median 6-month prevalence estimate was 18·2% (IQR: 12·7% - 21·8%); and the median 1-month prevalence estimate was 3·2% (IQR: 2·5-14·8%). Studies from Western sub-Saharan Africa reported the highest 12-month prevalence estimates (median = 24·3%; IQR = 16·9% - 27·9%). Clinical samples commonly reported overdose, whereas self-cutting was most commonly reported in non-clinical samples. Academic failure, sexual, emotional, and physical abuse, romantic relationship problems, family conflict, depression, and previous self-harm were identified as key correlates of self-harm. No study reported protective factors against self-harm. CONCLUSION Variation in estimates was explained by small sample sizes and variation in definitions and measures used. Exploration of associations, risks and protective factors was based upon concepts and measures derived from high income countries. More detailed and culturally sensitive research is needed to understand the context-specific risks and protective factors for self-harm in adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa.
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