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Martin K, Dauya E, Simms V, Bandason T, Azizi S, Machiha A, Shamu T, Musiyandaka P, Mwaturura T, Francis SC, Mackworth-Young CRS, Busza J, Mavodza C, Tembo M, Hayes RJ, Kranzer K, Ferrand RA, Dziva Chikwari C. Risk factors for curable sexually transmitted infections among youth: findings from the STICH population survey in Zimbabwe. Sex Transm Infect 2024:sextrans-2024-056146. [PMID: 38871454 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2024-056146] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Youth are at high risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Africa. We aimed to determine the risk factors for curable STIs in youth in Zimbabwe. METHODS A population-based survey was conducted among randomly selected 18-24 year-olds in 16 communities across two provinces in Zimbabwe to ascertain outcomes for a cluster randomised trial investigating the impact of community-based STI screening for youth on population prevalence of STIs. Participants underwent an interviewer-administered questionnaire, HIV testing and screening for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). Risk factors for curable STIs were explored through multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Of the 5601 participants, 62.5% (n=3500) were female, and the median age was 20 (IQR 19-22) years. HIV prevalence was 6.3% (351/5556), and 55.4% (1939/3501) reported condomless sex at last intercourse. Only 7.2% (401/5599) reported STI symptoms, but CT/NG/TV prevalence was 19.8% (1107/5601). On multivariable analysis, factors associated with STI diagnosis included being aged 21-24 years (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.37, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.61); female sex (aOR 2.11, 95% CI 1.76 to 2.53); being unemployed/informally employed (compared with in education/formal employment) (aOR 1.35, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.61); increasing number of sexual partners in the preceding 12 months (one partner: aOR 2.23, 95% CI 1.73 to 2.88; two partners: aOR 2.39, 95% CI 1.69 to 3.39); living with HIV (aOR 1.44, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.94); and previous attempted suicide (aOR 1.58, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.32). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of STIs among youth in Zimbabwe is high, particularly among those with HIV. In addition to moving away from syndromic STI management and strengthening implementation of existing prevention tools, there is a need for a more holistic focus on broader risk factors such as mental health and employment opportunities, and of integration of HIV and STI programming. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN15013425, NCT03719521.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Martin
- Clinical Research Department, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Ethel Dauya
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Victoria Simms
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Steven Azizi
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anna Machiha
- AIDS and TB Unit, Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Primrose Musiyandaka
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tinashe Mwaturura
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Suzanna C Francis
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Constance R S Mackworth-Young
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Global Health and Development, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joanna Busza
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Constancia Mavodza
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mandi Tembo
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Richard J Hayes
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- Clinical Research Department, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Rashida A Ferrand
- Clinical Research Department, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Richardson R, Connell T, Foster M, Blamires J, Keshoor S, Moir C, Zeng IS. Risk and Protective Factors of Self-harm and Suicidality in Adolescents: An Umbrella Review with Meta-Analysis. J Youth Adolesc 2024; 53:1301-1322. [PMID: 38564099 PMCID: PMC11045640 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-024-01969-w] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Suicide remains the second most common cause of death in young people aged 10-24 years and is a growing concern globally. The literature reports a vast number of factors that can predispose an adolescent to suicidality at an individual, relational, community, or societal level. There is limited high-level research identifying and understanding these risk and protective factors of adolescent suicidality. The present study used an umbrella review and meta-analysis to synthesize evidence from the review literature in the past 20 years on risk and protective factors of self-harm and suicidality (behavior and ideation) in adolescents. The umbrella review included 33 quantitative reviews with 1149 individual studies on suicidality and self-harm. Based on the data synthesis, it compared the public health impact of exposure on the population of the identified exposure. Bullying victimization was the most attributed environmental exposure for suicidality. The other identified significant school and individual factors were sleeping disturbance, school absenteeism, and exposure to antidepressants. Several significant vulnerable young populations were identified with significantly higher prevalence of suicidality, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or questioning) youth and those with mental health disorders, problem behaviors, previous suicidality, self-harm, and gender (female). A person-centered approach emphasizing connectedness and bully-free school environments should be a priority focus for schools, health professionals, and public health policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Richardson
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, Research Office, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Faculty of Culture and Society, School of Social Sciences and Public Policy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tanya Connell
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, School of Nursing, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mandie Foster
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, School of Nursing, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Midwifery and Nursing, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Julie Blamires
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, School of Nursing, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Smita Keshoor
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, School of Oral Health, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Chris Moir
- Centre for Postgraduate Nursing Studies, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Irene Suilan Zeng
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Science, Research Office, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Hua Z, Wang S, Yuan X. Trends in age-standardized incidence rates of depression in adolescents aged 10-24 in 204 countries and regions from 1990 to 2019. J Affect Disord 2024; 350:831-837. [PMID: 38242215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive analysis of the spatial distribution and temporal trends in the age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) of depression in adolescents aged 10-24 worldwide. METHODS Data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019 were analyzed, adopting Sawyer's broad definition of adolescence encompassing ages 10 to 24. Estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were used to assess temporal trends. RESULTS Globally, from 1990 to 2019, there was a decrease in the ASIR of depression in adolescents (EAPC = -0.23). Notably, this decrease was more pronounced in female adolescents compared to their male counterparts (EAPC = -0.12 and - 0.29, respectively). Conversely, high Sociodemographic Index (SDI) regions experienced a significant increase in the ASIR of depression among adolescents (EAPC = 0.87). Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that individuals aged 20-24 exhibited the highest incidence rate for depression followed by those aged 15-19 and then those aged 10-14. The largest increases in the ASIRs of depression occurred in High-income North America (EAPC = 1.19) and Malaysia (EAPC = 2.4), respectively. LIMITATIONS Mathematical models were used to reconstruct and adjust data of different qualities, which might have introduced bias. CONCLUSIONS The global burden of disease for depression among adolescents aged 10-24 years declined from 1990 to 2019. Special attention must be paid to older adolescents and areas with higher SDIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuguang Hua
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, No.59, Liuting Street Haishu District, Ningbo 315010, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuyu Wang
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 Zhengfu Street, Changping District, 102200 Beijing, China
| | - Xinhua Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, No.41 Northwest Street, Haishu District, Ningbo 315099, Zhejiang, China.
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Perry Mohling EW, Recinos M, Kwiringira JN, Phung E, Olwit C, Swahn MH, Massetti G, Self-Brown S. Adverse childhood experiences, mental distress, self-harm and suicidality, and cumulative HIV risk by sex in Lesotho. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 150:106701. [PMID: 38402043 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been understudied in low- and middle-income countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. OBJECTIVES, PARTICIPANTS, SETTING We explored associations between mental distress, self-harm or suicidality, and HIV risk and individual and cumulative ACEs (sexual, emotional, and physical violence; witnessing community and interparental violence; orphanhood) among youth aged 13-24 in Lesotho. METHODS Multivariable logistic regressions stratified by sex using nationally representative 2018 Lesotho Violence Against Children and Youth Survey (nfemale = 7101; nmale = 1467) data. RESULTS Over 75 % of males and females experienced at least 1 ACE. Among males, physical and community violence were significantly associated with mental distress; orphan status and emotional violence was associated with self-harm/suicidality. Males who witnessed interparental violence had higher odds of disclosing 2 types and 3 or more types of HIV risk versus none. Among females, being a double orphan and having experienced sexual, emotional, physical, community, and interparental violence were significantly associated with mental distress and any self-harm/suicidality in both models. Females who experienced physical violence had higher odds of disclosing 3 or more risk types versus no risk. Statistically significant associations emerged between cumulative ACEs and mental distress, self-harm/suicidality, and higher levels of HIV risk for both males and females. CONCLUSIONS Differential patterns of associations between ACEs and mental health problems and HIV risk emerged by sex. Scalable, integrated individual and community efforts to prevent ACEs, provide mental health supports, and encourage safer sexual behaviors among those exposed are needed and could benefit youth in Lesotho.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth W Perry Mohling
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; National SafeCare Training and Research Center, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Research of Interpersonal Violence, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Manderley Recinos
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; National SafeCare Training and Research Center, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Research of Interpersonal Violence, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Erick Phung
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; National SafeCare Training and Research Center, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Research of Interpersonal Violence, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Connie Olwit
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; National SafeCare Training and Research Center, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Research of Interpersonal Violence, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Monica H Swahn
- WellStar College of Health and Human Services, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Greta Massetti
- Division of Violence Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Shannon Self-Brown
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; National SafeCare Training and Research Center, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Research of Interpersonal Violence, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Jidong DE, Ike TJ, Husain N, Francis C, Husain MO, Mwankon SB, Murshed M, Jidong JE, Jack DB, Nyam PP, Bassett P, Pwajok JY, Taru MY, Nwoga CN. Perspectives on Self-Harm and Suicidal Ideation in Nigeria: A Mixed-Methods Study of Patients, Family Caregivers, Clinicians, and the Public. Arch Suicide Res 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38363148 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2024.2314520] [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] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide and self-harm are global disease burden that contributes significantly to years of lost life and mortality. Despite the increasing rates of suicide and self-harm in Nigeria, this topic is understudied. METHODS A mixed-methods design was adopted. Study 1 interviewed n = 18 participants (n = 11 clinicians; n = 5 patients with a history of self-harm and suicide ideation; and n = 2 caregivers). All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using IPA. Study 2 surveyed n = 562 non-clinical sample about their tolerance toward self-harm and the data was analyzed using One-way ANOVA in SPSS. RESULTS Study 1 qualitative findings showed substance use, perceived rejection and social isolation were considered predisposing factors for suicide and self-harm. Cultural and religious beliefs shaped help-seeking behaviours. Although Study 2 found no significant differences in demographic characteristics concerning public tolerance toward persons with a history of self-harm, 64% believed that individuals who died by suicide would face punishment after death; 51% believed that victims of attempted suicide are a source of shame to their families; and 33.8% agreed that dying by suicide is the correct behaviour. CONCLUSIONS Patients with a history of self-harm and suicidal ideation consider family members and close friends as valuable sources of support. Due to the potential clinical implication of cultural and religious beliefs, as shown in the present study's findings, the authors recommend a co-development of culturally appropriate psychological intervention for persons with a history of self-harm and suicidal ideation to be tested in randomized control trials.
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Martin F, Ferrey A, Hobbs L, Lascelles K, van Even S, Oliver T. Understanding the impact of children's and young people's self-harm on parental well-being: a systematic literature review of qualitative and quantitative findings. Child Adolesc Ment Health 2024. [PMID: 38362819 DOI: 10.1111/camh.12692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-harm in children and young people is increasing. Parents are vital in supporting young people; however, parents may experience distress linked to the self-harm. Previous reviews have highlighted the emotional impact and need for information and support, however, have not elucidated the relationships between these themes, nor examined the quantitative data examining parents' well-being. METHODS We conducted a mixed methods review, with qualitative meta-synthesis focusing on links between themes and quantitative synthesis of parental well-being findings, including pooled means. PsycInfo, Medline, EMBASE, AMED, CINHAL and Web of Science were searched to identify relevant records. References of included studies were also searched. Every abstract was screened by two authors. Data were extracted by one author and checked by another. RESULTS We identified 39 reports of 32 studies: 16 with qualitative data and 17 with quantitative data (one had both). Qualitative findings showed how parents' emotions were associated to their knowledge and beliefs about self-harm. Parents' emotions often evidenced the need to self-care, but emotions of guilt reduced engagement in self-care. How parents supported their young person was linked to their knowledge, and the management of their own emotions, and influenced if they could engage in self-care. Quantitative findings were mixed, however suggested poor general mental health amongst these parents. CONCLUSIONS Further good quality quantitative studies are needed, with measurement of psychological mechanisms that may underpin parental distress. Current evidence supports peer-support and interventions that go beyond information provision to address the connected factors of knowledge, emotion, self-care, and parenting behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Martin
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Anne Ferrey
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Laura Hobbs
- School of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | - Thomas Oliver
- School of Social Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
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Arora A, Bojko L, Kumar S, Lillington J, Panesar S, Petrungaro B. Assessment of machine learning algorithms in national data to classify the risk of self-harm among young adults in hospital: A retrospective study. Int J Med Inform 2023; 177:105164. [PMID: 37516036 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2023.105164] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-harm is one of the most common presentations at accident and emergency departments in the UK and is a strong predictor of suicide risk. The UK Government has prioritised identifying risk factors and developing preventative strategies for self-harm. Machine learning offers a potential method to identify complex patterns with predictive value for the risk of self-harm. METHODS National data in the UK Mental Health Services Data Set were isolated for patients aged 18-30 years who started a mental health hospital admission between Aug 1, 2020 and Aug 1, 2021, and had been discharged by Jan 1, 2022. Data were obtained on age group, gender, ethnicity, employment status, marital status, accommodation status and source of admission to hospital and used to construct seven machine learning models that were used individually and as an ensemble to predict hospital stays that would be associated with a risk of self-harm. OUTCOMES The training dataset included 23 808 items (including 1081 episodes of self-harm) and the testing dataset 5951 items (including 270 episodes of self-harm). The best performing algorithms were the random forest model (AUC-ROC 0.70, 95%CI:0.66-0.74) and the ensemble model (AUC-ROC 0.77 95%CI:0.75-0.79). INTERPRETATION Machine learning algorithms could predict hospital stays with a high risk of self-harm based on readily available data that are routinely collected by health providers and recorded in the Mental Health Services Data Set. The findings should be validated externally with other real-world, prospective data. FUNDING This study was supported by the Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmol Arora
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Health Economics Unit, NHS Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit, Leyland, UK.
| | - Louis Bojko
- Health Economics Unit, NHS Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit, Leyland, UK
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Health Economics Unit, NHS Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit, Leyland, UK
| | - Joseph Lillington
- Health Economics Unit, NHS Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit, Leyland, UK
| | - Sukhmeet Panesar
- Senior Adviser, Office of Chief Data and Analytics Officer, NHS England and NHS Improvement, UK
| | - Bruno Petrungaro
- Health Economics Unit, NHS Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit, Leyland, UK
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Bandeira M, Graham MA, Ebersöhn L. The significance of feeling safe for resilience of adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1183748. [PMID: 37663363 PMCID: PMC10469746 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1183748] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are exposed to several challenges and risk factors, linked to historical legacies. Sub-Saharan Africa has one of the highest rates of poverty and inequality in the world, is one of the regions most negatively affected by climate change, performs poorly on many health measures, and has high rates of different forms of violence, especially gender-based violence. These contextual challenges impact adolescent mental health outcomes, preventing them to access resilience-enabling pathways that support positive outcomes despite adversity. This study aimed to contribute to knowledge generation on resilience of young people in the understudied SSA region by investigating which variables directly (or indirectly) affect the resilience of adolescents. Methods Purposive sampling was used to collect quantitative survey data from 3,312 adolescents (females = 1,818; males = 1,494) between the ages of 12 and 20 years, participating in interventions implemented by a non-governmental organization, the Regional Psychosocial Support Initiative. Data were collected in Angola (385, 11.6%), Eswatini (128, 3.9%), Kenya (390, 11.8%), Lesotho (349, 10.5%), Mozambique (478, 14.4%), Namibia (296, 8.9%), South Africa (771, 23.3%), Uganda (201, 6.1%), and Zambia (314, 9.5%). The survey collected data on socio-demographic status, resilience (CYRM-R), depression (PHQ-9), self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale) and feelings of safety (self-developed scale). Mental health was defined as lower levels of depression, higher levels of self-esteem and higher levels of feeling safe. A mediation analysis was conducted to investigate the relationship between the predictors (the socio-demographic variables) and the output (resilience), with the mediators being depression, self-esteem and feeling safe (which all link to mental health). Results This study contributes to a gap in knowledge on country-level comparative evidence on significant predictors that impact resilience outcomes (directly or indirectly) for adolescents in sub-Saharan African countries. The results indicate that, when considering all countries collectively, feeling safe is the only predictor that has a significant direct effect on overall resilience and personal resilience, but not on caregiver resilience. When considering each country separately, feeling safe has a direct effect on overall, personal and caregiver resilience for all countries; but not for South Africa and Mozambique. Discussion The results provide evidence on which to craft youth development interventions by measuring mediators (depression, self-esteem and feeling safe) and resilience for adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. The overall results of the present paper point toward a contextually relevant pathway to supporting their resilience, namely, the need to systemically target the creation and/or strengthening of structures that enable adolescents to feel safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Bandeira
- Centre for the Study of Resilience and Department of Educational Psychology University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Marien A. Graham
- Department of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Liesel Ebersöhn
- Centre for the Study of Resilience and Department of Educational Psychology University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Okobi OE, Egbujo U, Darke J, Odega AS, Okereke OP, Adisa OT, Salawu MA, Kimble R. Association of Bullying Victimization With Suicide Ideation and Attempt Among School-Going Adolescents in Post-conflict Liberia: Findings From the Global School-Based Health Survey. Cureus 2023; 15:e40077. [PMID: 37425537 PMCID: PMC10326865 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background School-based bullying is a global problem that negatively impacts the victims' and perpetrators' health and well-being. There is a paucity of data regarding bullying in schools and its association with suicide behaviors among adolescents in Liberia. Objective The study investigated the impact of bullying victimization on suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts among adolescents in Liberia. It aimed to provide insights into the consequences of bullying victimization on adolescents' mental health regarding their thoughts of self-harm and suicide attempts. Methods The study utilized data from the 2017 Liberia Global School-based Health Survey (GSHS) to analyze information on 2744 students between the ages of 11 and 18 years, with 52.4% being males. Prevalence rates of bullying victimization and suicide behaviors were calculated using descriptive statistics. Multiple logistic regressions were used to model the relationship between being bullied and experiencing suicidal behaviors (ideation and attempts). Results Among the 2744 adolescents examined, 20% experienced suicidal thoughts, with about 30% of the adolescents reporting suicide attempts at some point in the year preceding the survey. Within 30 days prior to the survey, the prevalence of bullying victimization was 50%, with 44.9% experiencing frequent victimization (3 or more days). Bullying victimization was significantly linked to increased odds of suicidal ideation with planning (aOR: 1.86; P < 0.001), at least a suicide attempt (aOR: 2.16; P < 0.001), and multiple attempts at suicide (aOR: 2.67; P < 0.001). We also observed that a greater number of days bullied was dose-dependently associated with higher odds for suicide ideation and attempts. Conclusion These findings support and extend those from other developing countries, highlighting the association between school-based bullying and suicidal behaviors. The relatively high prevalence of bullying among adolescents in Liberia underscores the importance of implementing effective anti-bullying policies and suicide prevention strategies in schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okelue E Okobi
- Family Medicine, Medficient Health Systems, Laurel, USA
- Family Medicine, Lakeside Medical Center, Belle Glade, USA
| | - Uzoamaka Egbujo
- Internal Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, NGA
| | - Jennifer Darke
- Education, Institute for Teacher Education and Continuing Professional Development (ITECPD), Kumasi, GHA
- Education, University of Education, Winneba, Kumasi, GHA
| | - Amaka S Odega
- Community and Family Medicine, Windsor University School of Medicine, Basseterre, KNA
- Public Health, University of South Wales, Cardiff, GBR
- Family Medicine, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Sagamu, NGA
- Psychiatry, PsycIME, London, CAN
| | | | - Olufunmilola T Adisa
- Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Lagos, NGA
| | - Mujeeb A Salawu
- Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin College of Health Sciences, Ilorin, NGA
- Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, Houston Health department, Houston, USA
| | - Rita Kimble
- Research and Development, University of Maryland, Laurel, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We review recent research on the epidemiology and etiology of suicide in the global context. We focus on data from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), with the goal of highlighting findings from these under-researched, over-burdened settings. RECENT FINDINGS Prevalence of suicide in LMIC adults varies across region and country income-level, but is, on average, lower than in high-income countries. Recent gains in suicide reduction, however, have been smaller in LMIC compared to global rates. LMIC youth have much higher rates of suicide attempts than youth from high-income countries. Females as well as people with psychiatric disorders, those living with HIV, those who are LGBTQ + , and those with poor socioeconomic status are highly vulnerable populations in LMIC. Limited and low-quality data from LMIC hinder clear interpretation and comparison of results. A greater body of more rigorous research is needed to understand and prevent suicide in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L Lovero
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Amalio X Come
- Department of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Milton L Wainberg
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria A Oquendo
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Quarshie ENB, Dey NEY, Oppong Asante K. Adolescent suicidal behaviour in Namibia: a cross-sectional study of prevalence and correlates among 3,152 school learners aged 12-17 years. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:169. [PMID: 36922818 PMCID: PMC10018865 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04646-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While adolescent suicidal behaviour (ideation, planning, and attempt) remains a global public health concern, available county-specific evidence on the phenomenon from African countries is relatively less than enough. The present study was conducted to estimate the 12-month prevalence and describe some of the associated factors of suicide behaviour among school-going adolescents aged 12-17 years old in Namibia. METHODS Participants (n = 4531) answered a self-administered anonymous questionnaire developed and validated for the nationally representative Namibia World Health Organization Global School-based Student Health Survey conducted in 2013. We applied univariate, bivariable, and multivariable statistical approaches to the data. RESULTS Of the 3,152 analytical sample, 20.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.3-22.2%) reported suicidal ideation, 25.2% (95% CI: 22.3-28.4%) engaged in suicide planning, and 24.5% (95% CI: 20.9-28.6%) attempted suicide during the previous 12 months. Of those who attempted suicide, 14.6% (95% CI: 12.5-16.9%) reported one-time suicide attempt, and 9.9% (95% CI: 8.1-12.1%) attempted suicide at least twice in the previous 12 months. The final adjusted multivariable models showed physical attack victimisation, bullying victimisation, loneliness, and parental intrusion of privacy as key factors associated with increased likelihood of suicidal ideation, planning, one-time suicide attempt, and repeated attempted suicide. Cannabis use showed the strongest association with increased relative risk of repeated attempted suicide. CONCLUSION The evidence highlights the importance of paying more attention to addressing the mental health needs (including those related to psychological and social wellness) of school-going adolescents in Namibia. While the current study suggests that further research is warranted to explicate the pathways to adolescent suicide in Namibia, identifying and understanding the correlates (at the individual-level, family-level, interpersonal-level, school context and the broader community context) of adolescent suicidal ideations and non-fatal suicidal behaviours are useful for intervention and prevention programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kwaku Oppong Asante
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 84, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Psychology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Campisi SC, Ataullahjan A, Baxter JAB, Szatmari P, Bhutta ZA. Mental health interventions in adolescence. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 48:101492. [PMID: 36347181 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101492] [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: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent mental health (MH) disorders with striking prominence include anxiety, self-harm and depression. The current review aims to highlight high-quality reviews of novel interventions, mainly Cochrane reviews, and/or quality meta-analyses published between 2019 and 2022 on three adolescent mental health challenges. Recent evidence about the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions is encouraging. However, the shift to virtual treatment methods during the pandemic was supported by a relatively thin body of research. Future research and policy in child and youth MH must address the consequences of the pandemic or comparable disruptions on adolescent MH, as well as mitigation strategies. An emphasis on integrated digital, community and school platforms for mental health within child and adolescent health services would benefit from a greater focus on early recognition and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan C Campisi
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Burton Wing, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Anushka Ataullahjan
- Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children; 686 Bay Street, 11th Floor, Suite 11.9805, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4. Canada
| | - Jo-Anna B Baxter
- Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children; 686 Bay Street, 11th Floor, Suite 11.9805, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4. Canada
| | - Peter Szatmari
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Burton Wing, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada; Cundill Centre for Child and Youth Depression, Centre for Addiction, and Mental Health, 80 Workman Way, Toronto, ON - M6J 1H4. Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, 8th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8. Canada
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children; 686 Bay Street, 11th Floor, Suite 11.9805, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4. Canada; Centre of Excellence in Women, and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Stadium Road, PO Box 3500, Karachi, Pakistan. 74800.
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Sodi T, Quarshie ENB, Oppong Asante K, Radzilani-Makatu M, Makgahlela M, Nkoana S, Mutambara J. Mental health literacy of school-going adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa: a regional systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063687. [PMID: 36127093 PMCID: PMC9490578 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Assessing mental health literacy has implications for the identification and treatment of mental health problems. Adolescents have been identified as a particularly important target group for initiating and improving mental health literacy. However, much of what we know about adolescent mental health literacy comes from high-income countries. This proposed review seeks to synthesise the available published primary evidence from sub-Saharan Africa on the status and measurement of mental health literacy among school-going adolescents. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will perform a systematic review reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA-2020). We will systematically search selected global databases (EMBASE, PsycINFO, PubMed and MEDLINE) and regional electronic databases (African Index Medicus and African Journals OnLine) up to December 2021 for observational and qualitative studies published in English and French. The standard quality assessment criteria for evaluating primary research papers from a variety of fields (QualSyst criteria) will be used to appraise the methodological quality of the included studies. The Petticrew-Roberts 3-step approach to narrative synthesis will be applied to the included studies. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION We will not seek ethical approval from an institutional review board, as this is a systematic review of available and accessible literature. When completed, the full report of this review will be submitted to a journal for peer-reviewed publication; the key findings will be presented at local and international conferences with-partial or full-focus on (adolescent) mental health (literacy). PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021229011.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tholene Sodi
- Psychology Department, University of Limpopo, Sovenga, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie
- Department of Psychology, College of Humanities, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kwaku Oppong Asante
- Department of Psychology, College of Humanities, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Psychology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | | | | | - Shai Nkoana
- Psychology Department, University of Limpopo, Sovenga, South Africa
| | - Julia Mutambara
- Department of Psychiatry, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe
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Villaveces A, Shankar V, Palomeque F, Padilla M, Kress H. Association between violence and mental distress, self-harm and suicidal ideation and attempts among young people in Malawi. Inj Prev 2022; 28:injuryprev-2021-044510. [PMID: 35523567 PMCID: PMC10895876 DOI: 10.1136/injuryprev-2021-044510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health problems ranging from depression to more severe acts such as self-harm or suicidal behaviours are a serious problem among adolescents and young adults. Exposure to violence during the life of young people can increase mental health issues for youth. This study examines the relationship between exposure to violence and mental health issues among youth using a nationally representative study in Malawi. METHODS We analysed data from the nationally representative Violence Against Children Survey from Malawi (2013) to quantify the association between exposures to violence (physical, sexual and emotional) and their relationship with mental distress, self-harm behaviours and suicidal ideation and attempts among youth aged 13-24 years. We evaluated the association of exposures to violence against children with reported mental health conditions among women and men. We used ordinal logistic regression models with appropriate survey weights to assess exposures to violence and the three outcomes of interest. RESULTS Children and youth aged 13-24 years exposed to violence in childhood reported higher levels of adverse mental health effects, including mental distress, self-harm behaviours and suicidal ideation and attempts. The odds of reporting these outcomes increased as the number of violence types increased. CONCLUSIONS Understanding the risks based on different combinations of exposures to violence in Malawi can help identify populations at higher risk and optimise violence prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Villaveces
- Division of Violence Prevention, NCIPC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Viswanathan Shankar
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Francisco Palomeque
- State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Task Support Force, COVID-19 Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Mabel Padilla
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Howard Kress
- Division of Violence Prevention, NCIPC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Yedong W, Coulibaly SP, Sidibe AM, Hesketh T. Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation and Attempts among School-Attending Adolescents in Bamako, Mali. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9040542. [PMID: 35455586 PMCID: PMC9024422 DOI: 10.3390/children9040542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Suicide and self-harm are major public health concerns for adolescents globally, but there is a dearth of related research in West Africa. This study aims to examine the prevalence and associated factors for self-harm, suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among adolescents in the West African country of Mali. A questionnaire survey was conducted among adolescents attending school or university in August 2019 in Bamako, the capital of Mali. Logistical constraints necessitated convenience sampling. Outcome measures were self-harm and suicide ideation and attempts. Predictor variables included sociodemographic characteristics, bullying and mental health problems. There were 606 respondents who completed questionnaires; their mean age was 16.1 (SD = 2.4); 318 (52.5%) were identified as male; and 44.4% reported self-harm at some point in their life, with 21% reporting suicide ideation and 9.7% actual suicide attempts. For all three outcomes, older age, knowing somebody personally who had experienced self-harm or taken their own life, moderate to severe depression or anxiety, and being a victim of bullying were highly significant risk factors for self-harm, suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in these adolescents, while high self-esteem decreased the risk. The study suggests that self-harm and suicidal behaviour are relatively common in Malian adolescents who are still in education. However, much more research is needed to better understand this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu Yedong
- Center for Global Health, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (W.Y.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Souleymane Papa Coulibaly
- Faculty of Medicine and Odontostomatogy, University of Technical Sciences and Technologies, Bamako 00223, Mali;
| | | | - Thérèse Hesketh
- Center for Global Health, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (W.Y.); (A.M.S.)
- The Institute for Global Health, University College London, London WC1N1EH, UK
- Correspondence:
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Jumbe S, Nyali J, Simbeye M, Zakeyu N, Motshewa G, Pulapa SR. ‘We do not talk about it’: Engaging youth in Malawi to inform adaptation of a mental health literacy intervention. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265530. [PMID: 35349575 PMCID: PMC8963557 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose There is limited knowledge on how to tackle mental health problems among youth in Africa. Literature describing community engagement (CE) approaches in low/middle-income countries (LMICs) health research is sparse. CE with youth from LMICS can help steer and shape culturally relevant interventions for stigmatised topics like mental health, resulting in better healthcare experiences. We share our experience of engaging youth in Malawi through advocacy organisations to inform cultural adaptation of a mental health literacy intervention. Methods Young people were recruited using social media from universities and community youth organisations in Malawi to participate in focus group discussions to help culturally adapt content of an existing mental health literacy intervention. Nine online focus groups with 44 individuals were conducted. Discussions involved views and experiences of mental health, including impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Discussions were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis. Results Transcript analyses revealed a vicious cycle of poverty and mental health problems for youth in Malawi. Four key themes were identified, 1) poverty-related socioeconomic and health challenges, 2) no one talks about mental health, 3) lacking mental health support and 4) relationship issues. These themes fed into one another within this vicious cycle which perpetually and negatively impacted their lives. The coronavirus pandemic worsened socioeconomic issues, health challenges, mental health and substance use issues, and burden on Malawi’s already weak mental health system. Conclusion Findings suggest increasing untreated mental health burden among Malawi’s youth. It highlights great need to address mental health literacy using existing community structures like educational settings to minimise burden on a weak health system. Online focus groups are an effective way of acquiring views from various young people in Malawi on mental health. This CE approach has grown our stakeholder network, strengthening potential for future CE activities and broader research dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Jumbe
- Centre for Evaluation and Methods, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Millennium University, Blantyre, Malawi
- * E-mail:
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Mutahi J, Larsen A, Cuijpers P, Peterson SS, Unutzer J, McKay M, John-Stewart G, Jewell T, Kinuthia J, Gohar F, Lai J, Wamalwa D, Gachuno O, Kumar M. Mental health problems and service gaps experienced by pregnant adolescents and young women in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 44:101289. [PMID: 35198916 PMCID: PMC8851289 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant adolescent girls and young women (AGYW, aged 12-24 years) are at high risk for mental health problems, particularly in the Sub-Saharan African (SSA) region. METHODS We performed a systematic review of mental health studies among pregnant AGYW in SSA published between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2020 in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Global Index Medicus following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD42021230980). We used Bronfenbrenner's bioecological model to frame and synthesize results from included studies. FINDINGS Our search yielded 945 articles from which 18 studies were included (N = 8 quantitative, N = 9 qualitative, N = 1 case report). The most frequently studied mental health problem was depression (N = 9 studies); the most frequently utilized measurement tool was the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (N = 3). Studies reported life course factors, individual, microsystem, exosystem, macrosystem, and chronosystem-level factors associated with mental health problems. Gaps in mental health service delivery for pregnant AGYW included lack of confidentiality, judgmental healthcare worker attitudes, and lack of services tailored to their unique needs. INTERPRETATION Gaps remain in research and services for mental health among pregnant AGYW in SSA. Integration of mental health services within school, community, and healthcare settings that are tailored to pregnant AGYW could strengthen health systems within SSA. FUNDING Author contributions were supported by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (F31HD101149 to AL) and the Fogarty International Center (K43TW010716 to MK). The funding agencies had no role in the writing of the manuscript or the decision to submit it for publication. The project itself was not funded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Mutahi
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, 00100 (19676), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anna Larsen
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherland
| | | | - Jurgen Unutzer
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Mary McKay
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Teresa Jewell
- University of Washington Libraries, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - John Kinuthia
- Research and Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Fatima Gohar
- United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), New York, NY, United States
| | - Joanna Lai
- United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), New York, NY, United States
| | - Dalton Wamalwa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Onesmus Gachuno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Manasi Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, 00100 (19676), Nairobi, Kenya
- Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University, Kenya
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Self-harm and suicidal behaviour represent major global health problems, which account for significant proportions of the disease burden in low-income and middle-income countries, including Ghana. This review aims to synthesise the available and accessible evidence on prevalence estimates, correlates, risk and protective factors, the commonly reported methods and reasons for self-harm and suicidal behaviour in Ghana. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct a systematic review reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (2009) recommendations. Regional and global electronic databases (African Journals OnLine, African Index Medicus, APA PsycINFO, Global Health, MEDLINE and PubMed) will be searched systematically up to December 2021 for observational studies and qualitative studies that have reported prevalence estimates, correlates, risk and protective factors, methods and reasons for self-harm and suicidal behaviour in Ghana. The electronic database searches will be supplemented with reference harvesting and grey literature searching in Google Scholar and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global for postgraduate dissertations. Only records in English will be included. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (2018) will be used to assess the methodological quality of included studies. Meta-analysis or narrative synthesis or both will be used, contingent on the extent of heterogeneity across eligible observational studies. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Considering that this is a systematic review of accessible and available literature, we will not seek ethical approval. On completion, this review will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal, be disseminated publicly at (mental) health conferences with focus on self-harm and suicide prevention. The important findings would also be shared with key national stakeholder groups in Ghana: Ghana Association for Suicide Prevention, Ghana Mental Health Authority, Ghana Psychological Association, Centre for Suicide and Violence Research, Accra and the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021234622.
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Chatterjee D, Rai R. Choosing Death Over Survival: A Need to Identify Evolutionary Mechanisms Underlying Human Suicide. Front Psychol 2021; 12:689022. [PMID: 34803791 PMCID: PMC8595259 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.689022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The act of killing self contradicts the central purpose of human evolution, that is, survival and propagation of one’s genetic material. Yet, it continues to be one of the leading causes of human death. A handful of theories in the realm of evolutionary psychology have attempted to explain human suicide. The current article analyses the major components of certain prominent viewpoints, namely, Inclusive fitness, Bargaining model, Pain-Brain model, Psychological aposematism, and few other perspectives. The article argues that relatively more weightage has been given to understanding ultimate (the “why”) rather than proximate (the “how”) functionality of suicidal acts. Evolutionary theorists have consistently pointed out that to comprehensively understand a trait or behavior, one needs to delineate not only how it supports survival but also the evolution of the mechanisms underlying the trait or behavior. Existing theories on suicide have primarily focused on its fitness benefits on surviving kin instead of providing evolutionary explanations of the more complex mechanisms leading up to such self-destructive motivations. Thus, the current paper attempts to highlight this gap in theorizing while suggesting probable proximate explanations of suicide which stresses the need to diffuse attention paid to fitness consequences of the act alone. We speculate that such explorations are needed in order to build a robust and comprehensive evolutionary theory of human suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diya Chatterjee
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India
| | - Rishabh Rai
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India
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Tetteh J, Ekem-Ferguson G, Quarshie ENB, Swaray SM, Ayanore MA, Seneadza NAH, Asante KO, Yawson AE. Marijuana use and suicidal behaviours among school-going adolescents in Africa: assessments of prevalence and risk factors from the Global School-Based Student Health Survey. Gen Psychiatr 2021; 34:e100558. [PMID: 34557644 PMCID: PMC8395261 DOI: 10.1136/gpsych-2021-100558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Marijuana use among adolescents, including high school students, has been consistently reported to be associated with a high incidence of suicidal behaviours. Little empirical research has been conducted on the propensity impact of marijuana use on suicidal behaviours in Africa. Aims To assess factors associated with marijuana use and further quantify marijuana use as an associated factor of suicidal behaviours, including repeated attempted suicide, suicidal ideation and suicide planning, among high school students in Africa. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 32 802 school-going adolescents using the Global School-Based Student Health Survey data from 10 African countries grouped into West Africa, North Africa, South-East Africa, South Africa and East Africa subregions. Marijuana use and repeated attempted suicide were the main outcome variables. We employed double selection least absolute shrinkage and selection operator poisson regression model to assess risk factors associated with marijuana use and dominance analysis to establish ranked important and common risk factors. Inverse probability weighting poisson regression adjustment was applied to assess impact. Results The prevalence of marijuana use and repeated attempted suicide were 3.7% (95% CI: 3.1 to 4.3) and 6.6% (95% CI: 5.9 to 7.4), respectively. The most important risk factor for marijuana use generally across the countries and specifically in three subregions was alcohol consumption, which constituted approximately 40% of the impact. The average treatment effect on the treated (ATT) indicated that marijuana use significantly increased the risk of suicidal ideation, suicide planning and repeated attempted suicide by 12% (ATT=0.12 (95% CI: 0.02 to 0.22)), 18% (ATT=0.18 (95% CI: 0.13 to 0.22)) and 31% (ATT=0.31 (95% CI: 0.20 to 0.41)), respectively. Conclusions Marijuana use was significantly associated with suicidal behaviours (suicidal ideation, planning and repeated attempted suicide) among the students. To achieve Sustainable Development Goal 3.5 (to strengthen prevention and treatment of substance abuse), school-based psychosocial interventions should be streamlined to adequately assess and manage marijuana use. Targeting the most dominant risk factors in this population could translate into the reduction of suicidal behaviours in countries within Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Tetteh
- Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Ghana College of Humanities, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Martin Amogre Ayanore
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences School of Public Health, Hohoe, Ghana
| | | | - Kwaku Oppong Asante
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Ghana College of Humanities, Accra, Ghana
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Hoogstoel F, Fassinou LC, Samadoulougou S, Mahieu C, Coppieters Y, Kirakoya-Samadoulougou F. Using Latent Class Analysis to Identify Health Lifestyle Profiles and Their Association with Suicidality among Adolescents in Benin. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18168602. [PMID: 34444357 PMCID: PMC8391144 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Youth suicidality is considerably prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, including Benin. Factors such as psychosocial distress, socio-environmental factors, and health risk behaviors are associated with suicidality. However, little is known about how these factors co-occur in these countries. An analysis of these factors taken together would help to identify the profiles most at risk and better target prevention policies. Our study aimed to identify profiles related to these factors and their association with suicidality among adolescents in Benin. Data from the 2016 Global School-Based Student Health Survey were used, and factors related to lifestyle (tobacco and alcohol consumption and physical activity), physical violence, parental support, and psychological distress were studied. Latent class analysis was used to identify the profiles, and a modified Poisson regression with generalized estimating equations, adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, was performed to assess the association between these profiles and suicidality. The survey results show that globally, 13.8% of the adolescents (n = 2536) aged 11 to 18 had thought about suicide, 15.6% had planned suicide, and 15.6% had attempted suicide. Four profiles were identified: a low-risk group, one with psychological distress problems, a group with violence problems, and one with alcohol, tobacco, and violence problems. The risk of suicidality, in terms of ideation, planning, or attempting, was higher for adolescents in Profiles 2, 3, and 4 than those in Profile 1 (p < 0.05). Adolescents in Profile 2 were particularly affected by this increased risk (prevalence ratio (PR) for ideation = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.03–1.23; PR for planning = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.04–1.22; PR for attempting = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.01–1.17). This study highlights the typical profiles that may be linked with suicidality among adolescents in Benin. A holistic consideration of these factors could help in planning better preventive measures to reduce suicidality among adolescents in Benin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Hoogstoel
- Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie, Biostatistique et Recherche Clinique, Ecole de Santé Publique, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (F.H.); (L.C.F.); (Y.C.)
| | - Lucresse Corine Fassinou
- Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie, Biostatistique et Recherche Clinique, Ecole de Santé Publique, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (F.H.); (L.C.F.); (Y.C.)
| | - Sékou Samadoulougou
- Evaluation Platform on Obesity Prevention, Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada;
- Centre for Research on Planning and Development (CRAD), Laval University, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Céline Mahieu
- Centre de Recherche Interdisciplinaire en Approches Sociales de la Santé, Ecole de Santé Publique, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Yves Coppieters
- Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie, Biostatistique et Recherche Clinique, Ecole de Santé Publique, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (F.H.); (L.C.F.); (Y.C.)
- Centre de Recherche Politiques et Systèmes de Santé, Ecole de Santé Publique, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fati Kirakoya-Samadoulougou
- Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie, Biostatistique et Recherche Clinique, Ecole de Santé Publique, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik, 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (F.H.); (L.C.F.); (Y.C.)
- Correspondence:
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Tesfaye E, Kassaw C, Agenagnew L. Functional Disability in Patients with Mood Disorders at St Paul's Hospital Psychiatry Clinic, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2019. PATIENT-RELATED OUTCOME MEASURES 2021; 12:181-189. [PMID: 34163274 PMCID: PMC8214203 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s295680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Functional disability is defined as limitations in performing socially defined roles and tasks expected within a sociocultural and physical environment. Functionality is a result of good mental health care. This study aimed to assess the magnitude and determinants of functional disability among patients with a mood disorders treated at St Paul's Hospital outpatient psychiatry clinic, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 2019. Methods This was a cross-sectional study. We used consecutive sampling to select respondents. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the 12-item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule version 2.0. Data were entered into EpiData 3.1 and exported to SPSS 22.0 for analysis. Linear regression analysis was used to identify significant variables associated with outcomes. Results This study enrolled 235 respondents with a 100% nonresponse rate, and 62.5% were diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Mean disability score was 30.2%±32.4%. Nearly a quarter of respondents had had difficulties every day with day-to-day activity for the past 30 days. Current level of improvement (no change, β=10.5, 95% CI 3.85-17.2), relapse (β=6.15, 95% CI 1.34-10.9) and self-stigma (β=4.36, 95% CI 1.39-7.33) were strong predictors of disability score (P<0.05). Conclusion This study found a mean disability score of 30.2%. Current level of improvement and self-stigma were variables associated with disability, so working with stakeholders to focus on patients' clinical improvement from their illness and self-stigma will be vital to enhance their functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Tesfaye
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Chalachew Kassaw
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Liyew Agenagnew
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Systematic review and narrative synthesis of suicide prevention in high-schools and universities: a research agenda for evidence-based practice. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1116. [PMID: 34112141 PMCID: PMC8194002 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11124-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Youth suicide prevention in high-schools and universities is a public health priority. Our aim was to propose a research agenda to advance evidence-based suicide prevention in high-schools and universities by synthesizing and critically reviewing the research focus and methodologies used in existing intervention studies. Methods Fourteen databases were systematically searched to identify studies which evaluate suicide prevention interventions delivered on high-school or university campuses, with before and after measures. Data from included studies (n = 43) were extracted to identify what, where, how and for whom interventions have been tested. Narrative synthesis was used to critically evaluate research focus and methodology. Study quality was assessed. Results Research has focused primarily on selective interventions, with less attention on indicated and universal interventions. Most evidence comes from North America and high-income countries. The target of interventions has been: non-fatal suicidal behaviour; confidence and ability of staff/students to intervene in a suicidal crisis; suicide-related knowledge and attitudes; and suicide-related stigma. No studies included suicide deaths as an outcome, evaluated eco-systemic interventions, explored how context influences implementation, used multisite study designs, or focused explicitly on LGBTQ+ youth. Two studies evaluated digital interventions. Quality of the majority of studies was compromised by lack of methodological rigour, small samples, and moderate/high risk of bias. Interventions often assume the existence of an external well-functioning referral pathway, which may not be true in low-resource settings. Conclusion To advance evidence-based suicide prevention in educational settings we need to: conduct more high-quality clinical and pragmatic trials; promote research in low- and middle-income countries; test targeted interventions for vulnerable populations (like LGBTQ+ youth), evaluate interventions where death by suicide is the primary outcome; include translational studies and use implementation science to promote intervention uptake; evaluate the potential use of digital and eco-systemic interventions; and conduct multisite studies in diverse cultural settings. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-11124-w.
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Quarshie ENB. Self-Harm Among School-Going Adolescent Survivors of Sexual Violence Victimisation: A Cross-Sectional Study. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2021; 6:605865. [PMID: 34095285 PMCID: PMC8174787 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2021.605865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Background: A growing body of evidence from high-income contexts suggests a strong association between sexual violence victimisation and self-harm and eventual suicide. However, both sexual violence and self-harm among adolescents are still less researched in sub-Saharan African countries, including Ghana. Objectives: To estimate the 12-month prevalence of self-harm, and to describe the associated factors and reported reasons for self-harm among school-going adolescent survivors of sexual violence victimisation during the previous 12 months in urban Ghana. Methods: Analytic data came from a regional-based representative cross-sectional survey including in-school youth (N = 1,723) conducted in 2017 within the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Of these, 297 (17.2%) self-reported sexual violence victimisation in the previous 12 months; this proportion of the participants (n = 297) was the focus of the current study. Items measuring sexual violence victimisation, self-harm, and correlates were adopted from the 2012 Ghana WHO-Global School-based Student Health Survey and the Child and Adolescent Self-harm in Europe Study. Data analysis involved multivariable logistic regression models. Results: The estimate of self-harm ideation during the previous 12 months was 45.8% (95% CI: 40-52), whereas the estimate of self-harm behaviour was 38.7% (95% CI: 33-44). About two in five of the participants who reported self-harm wanted to die by their last episode of the behaviour. While bullying victimisation was associated with increased odds of self-harm ideation (aOR = 1.97, 95% CI 1.17, 3.31, p = 0.010) and behaviour (aOR = 2.76, 95% CI 1.59, 4.80, p < 0.001), weekly alcohol use (aOR = 2.56, 95% CI 1.32, 4.93, p = 0.005), conflict with parents (aOR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.28, 4.12, p = 0.005), and physical abuse victimisation (aOR = 1.80, 95% CI 1.03, 3.15, p = 0.037) showed strong associations with increased odds of self-harm behaviour in the past 12 months. Conclusions: The evidence underscores the need for both universal and targeted multi-level intervention and prevention programmes to mitigate the offence of sexual violence and reduce the chances of self-harm among adolescent survivors of sexual violence in urban Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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The prevalence of mental health problems in sub-Saharan adolescents: A systematic review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251689. [PMID: 33989357 PMCID: PMC8121357 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose Most research regarding child and adolescent mental health prevention and promotion in low-and middle-income countries is undertaken in high-income countries. This systematic review set out to synthesise findings from epidemiological studies, published between 2008 and 2020, documenting the prevalence of mental health problems in adolescents from across sub-Saharan Africa. Methods A systematic search of multiple databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus) and Google Scholar was conducted guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Reviewer’s manual for systematic reviews of observational epidemiological studies. Studies included reported prevalence outcomes for adolescents aged 10–19 using either clinical interviews or standardized questionnaires to assess psychopathology. Clinical samples were excluded. Results The search yielded 1 549 records of which 316 studies were assessed for eligibility and 51 met the inclusion criteria. We present a qualitative synthesis of 37 of these 51 included articles. The other 14 studies reporting prevalence rates for adolescents living with HIV are published elsewhere. The prevalence of depression, anxiety disorders, emotional and behavioural difficulties, posttraumatic stress and suicidal behaviour in the general adolescent population and selected at-risk groups in 16 sub-Saharan countries (with a total population of 97 616 adolescents) are reported.
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Williams BM, Kayange L, Purcell L, Gallaher J, Charles A. Self-inflicted injuries: The intersection of mental health and traumatic injury in Malawi. Trop Doct 2021; 51:390-397. [PMID: 33957829 DOI: 10.1177/00494755211013197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Self-inflicted injury, the most common form of intentional injury, disproportionately affects low-income countries, but is poorly described in this setting. This retrospective review of the 2008-2018 trauma registry at a referral hospital in Malawi included all victims of intentional injury ≥10 years. Self-inflicted injuries were compared to assaults. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Common mechanisms of self-inflicted injuries were fall from height, poisoning, and penetrating injury. In-hospital mortality from self-inflicted injury was 8.8% vs. 1.9% for assault. Those who died from self-inflicted injury were more often older (median 34 vs. 26 years, p < 0.001), male (91.9% vs. 67.8%, p < 0.001), unemployed (32.8% vs. 6.4%, p < 0.001), and most commonly died by hanging (60%). The odds of in-hospital mortality after self-inflicted injury was four times assault (OR 4.0 [95% CI 1.4-11.5], p = 0.01). The trauma registry proved useful for describing self-inflicted injury in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittney M Williams
- Surgery Resident, Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Linda Kayange
- Surgery Resident, Department of Surgery, 291053Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe Malawi
| | - Laura Purcell
- Surgery Resident, Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Jared Gallaher
- Assistant Professor of Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Anthony Charles
- Professor of Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA.,Professor of Surgery, Department of Surgery, 291053Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe Malawi
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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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Quarshie ENB, Shuweihdi F, Waterman M, House A. Self-harm among in-school and street-connected adolescents in Ghana: a cross-sectional survey in the Greater Accra region. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e041609. [PMID: 33500283 PMCID: PMC7843304 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify the prevalence, methods, associations and reported reasons for self-harm among in-school and street-connected adolescents in Ghana. DESIGN A cross-sectional survey. We applied multi-level regression models and model-based cluster analysis to the data. SETTING Three contexts in the Greater Accra region were used: second cycle schools, facilities of charity organisations and street census enumeration areas (sleeping places of street-connected adolescents, street corners, quiet spots of restaurants, markets, train and bus stations, and lorry and car parks). PARTICIPANTS A regionally representative sample of 2107 (1723 in-school and 384 street-connected) adolescents aged 13-21 years. OUTCOME MEASURES Participants responded to a structured self-report anonymous questionnaire describing their experience of self-harm and eliciting demographic information and social and personal adversities. RESULTS The lifetime prevalence of self-harm was 20.2% (95% CI 19.0% to 22.0%), 12-month prevalence was 16.6% (95% CI 15.0% to 18.0%) and 1-month prevalence was 3.1% (95% CI 2.0% to 4.0%). Self-injury alone accounted for 54.5% episodes and self-poisoning alone for 16.2% episodes, with more than one method used in 26% of episodes. Self-cutting (38.7%) was the most common form of self-injury, whereas alcohol (39.2%) and medications (27.7%) were the most commonly reported means of self-poisoning. The factors associated with self-harm were interpersonal: conflict with parents (adjusted OR (aOR)=1.87, 95% CI 1.24 to 2.81), physical abuse victimisation (aOR=1.69, 95% CI 1.16 to 2.47), difficulty in making and keeping friends (aOR=1.24, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.80), sexual abuse victimisation (aOR=1.21, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.87) and conflict between parents (aOR=1.07, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.56). CONCLUSIONS Self-harm is a significant public health problem among in-school and street-connected adolescents in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Its origins are very largely in social and familial adversity, and therefore prevention and treatment measures need to be focused in these areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Farag Shuweihdi
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Allan House
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Bukuluki P, Wandiembe S, Kisaakye P, Besigwa S, Kasirye R. Suicidal Ideations and Attempts Among Adolescents in Kampala Urban Settlements in Uganda: A Case Study of Adolescents Receiving Care From the Uganda Youth Development Link. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2021; 6:646854. [PMID: 34368292 PMCID: PMC8334726 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2021.646854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
There is an increasing recognition that suicidal ideation is a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa. We employed a case study design, taking a case study of adolescents currently under the care of Uganda Youth Development Link (UYDEL). The data analyzed were collected from 219 female and male adolescents (13-19 years) recruited through UYDEL in Kampala, Uganda. A Poisson regression model with robust variance was used to assess the risk factors associated with suicidality. The prevalence of suicidal ideation in the past 4 weeks and attempt within the past 6 months among adolescents was 30.6% (95% CI: 24.8, 38.0%) and 24.2% (95% CI: 18.7, 30.4%), respectively. The most stressful precursors of suicidal ideation or attempt included financial difficulties (59.5%), family breakdown or conflicts (37.4%), and trauma (23.1%). Suicidal ideation in the past 1 week preceding the survey was as high as 13.3% (95% CI: 9.0, 18.6%), of which 75.0% (95% CI: 55.1%, 89.3%) had a suicide plan. Prevalence of suicidal ideation in the past 4 weeks was significantly higher among respondents with moderate psychological distress [Prevalence Ratio (PRR) = 2.74; 95% CI: 0.96, 7.84] and severe psychological distress (PRR = 4.75; 95% CI: 1.72, 13.08) but lower among adolescents who knew where to obtain professional psychological care (PRR = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.30, 0.87). Similarly, suicidal attempt was significantly higher among respondents with moderate psychological distress (PRR = 4.72; 95% CI: 1.01, 12.03) and severe psychological distress (PRR = 11.8; 95% CI: 4.66, 32.37), and who abuse drugs or substances (PRR = 2.13; 95% CI: 1.13, 4.01). Therefore, suicidal ideation is a major public health issue among adolescents living in poor urban settlements in Kampala, Uganda. Psychological distress due to financial difficulties, unemployment, and family breakdown are major facilitators of suicidality among adolescents in urban poor settlements in Kampala. Interventions aimed at preventing suicide among vulnerable adolescents in urban settlements in Kampala, Uganda should incorporate this unique risk factor profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Bukuluki
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, School of Social Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- *Correspondence: Paul Bukuluki
| | - Symon Wandiembe
- Department of Statistical Methods, School of Statistics and Planning, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Kisaakye
- Department of Population Studies, School of Statistics and Planning, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Samuel Besigwa
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, School of Social Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rogers Kasirye
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, School of Social Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Nii-Boye Quarshie E, Andoh-Arthur J. Suicide Attempts Among 1,437 Adolescents Aged 12-17 Years Attending Junior High Schools in Ghana. CRISIS 2020; 43:8-17. [PMID: 33275055 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Background: Emerging research on suicidal behaviors among adolescents in Ghana has been conducted mainly among senior high school students. Aims: We aimed to estimate the 12-month prevalence of suicide attempts and describe some of the general and gender-specific associated factors among adolescents attending junior high schools (JHSs) in Ghana. Method: We analyzed data from the 2012 Ghana Global School-Based Student Health Survey. The sample consisted of 1,437 adolescents aged 12-17 years. We performed bivariate and multivariable analyses to assess the associations between 12-month suicide attempts and some psychosocial factors. Results: The overall 12-month prevalence estimate of suicide attempts was 27.6%, with comparable estimates between males (26.4%) and females (28.8%). In the final adjusted multivariable models, bullying victimization (AOR = 2.57; 95% CI = 1.53, 4.31), alcohol use (AOR = 1.94; 95% CI = 1.10, 3.41), and having no close friends (AOR = 0.36; 95% CI = 0.17, 0.75) were associated with increased odds of suicide attempts among males, whereas anxiety (AOR = 2.57; 95% CI = 1.54, 4.29) and being sexually active (AOR = 2.42; 95% CI = 1.25, 4.68) were associated with increased odds of suicide attempts in females. Limitations: The correlational nature of this study did not allow for causal inferences. Conclusion: The study underscores adolescent suicide attempts as a public health concern 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.,Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Johnny Andoh-Arthur
- Centre for Suicide and Violence Research (CSVR), Accra, Ghana.,Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Quarshie ENB, Onyeaka HK, Oppong Asante K. Suicidal behaviours among adolescents in Liberia. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:572. [PMID: 33256674 PMCID: PMC7706245 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02985-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whereas suicide remains in the top 12 leading causes of death among young people aged 10-24 in sub-Saharan Africa, little is known about suicidal behaviours among adolescents in Liberia. We aimed to estimate the 12-month prevalence and describe some of the correlates of suicide behaviours (ideation, planning, and attempt) among school-going adolescents in Liberia. METHODS We analysed data from the 2017 Liberia Global School-based Student Health Survey conducted nationwide among secondary school students. We performed bivariate and multivariable analyses to assess the correlates of suicidal ideation, planning, and attempt in the previous 12 months. RESULTS Of the 2744 students, 26.8% reported suicidal ideation, 36.5% made a specific plan to attempt suicide and 33.7% attempted suicide during the 12 months preceding the survey. In the final adjusted logistic models, bullying victimisation and food insecurity were associated with increased odds of ideation, planning, and attempt. Whereas no factor was uniquely associated with suicidal ideation, having many close friends, and parental monitoring were associated with the increased odds of suicidal planning only. Leisure-time sedentary behaviour was associated with increased odds of suicidal planning and attempt. Cannabis use, alcohol drunkenness, being physically attacked, and parental supervision were uniquely associated with increased odds of suicidal attempt, while parental understanding and having a smaller number of close friends were uniquely associated with reduced odds of suicidal attempt. CONCLUSIONS The relatively high prevalence estimates of suicide behaviours and the multi-contextual nature of the associated factors warrant the need for the design and implementation of universal and multi-level, collaborative targeted intervention efforts towards the prevention of the onset of ideation, planning, and attempt, and the possible transition to deaths by suicide among school-going adolescents in Liberia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 84, Accra, Ghana. .,School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | - Henry K. Onyeaka
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Mclean Hospital, Boston, USA ,grid.38142.3c000000041936754XHarvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Kwaku Oppong Asante
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 84, Accra, Ghana ,grid.412219.d0000 0001 2284 638XDepartment of Psychology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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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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Silva AFD, Júnior CASA, Hinnig PDF, Lima LRAD, Silva DAS. Suicidal behaviors and sedentary lifestyles among adolescents: A cross-sectional epidemiological study in Latin American and Caribbean countries. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2020; 75:e2015. [PMID: 33146359 PMCID: PMC7561067 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2020/e2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To verify the association between suicidal behaviors (ideation, planning, and attempts) and sedentary behaviors among adolescents from four Latin American and Caribbean countries. METHODS A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted in four countries in Latin America and the Caribbean (Bahamas, Curação, El Salvador, and Guatemala). The sample comprised 6,813 adolescents aged 11-18 years, of which, 3,559 were females. The three suicidal behaviors considered were ideation, planning, and attempts. Sedentary behavior was regarded as the time that adolescents spent sitting, excluding time at school. Crude and adjusted logistic regression were used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS Suicidal ideation was present in 10.7% of males and 22.7% of females. Suicidal planning was present in 8.6% of males and 16.3% of females. Suicidal attempt was present in 9.3% of males and 16.3% of females. Sedentary behavior was present in 39.6% of males and 45.7% of females. It was identified that male adolescents who reported spending ≥3 hours/day in sedentary behavior were more likely to have suicidal ideation (OR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.13-1.80), whereas female adolescents who reported spending ≥3 hours/day in sedentary behavior were more likely to have suicidal ideation (OR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.30-1.83), planning (OR: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.28-1.86), and attempts (OR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.09-1.57). CONCLUSION Adolescents of both sexes who reported spending ≥3 hours/day in sedentary behaviors were more likely to have some suicidal behaviors than those who spent less time in sedentary behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andressa Ferreira da Silva
- Centro de Pesquisa de Cineantropometria e Desempenho Humano, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, FL, BR
| | | | | | | | - Diego Augusto Santos Silva
- Centro de Pesquisa de Cineantropometria e Desempenho Humano, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, FL, BR
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Quarshie ENB, Waterman MG, House AO. Adolescents at risk of self-harm in Ghana: a qualitative interview study exploring the views and experiences of key adult informants. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:310. [PMID: 32546144 PMCID: PMC7298808 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02718-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Ghana, rates of self-harm in young people are as high as they are in high income countries. Self-reported interpersonal, familial and societal stressors form the most important background, and self-harm is seen by young people as a way of responding to that stress. In the present study, we obtained the views of key adult informants about self-harm among adolescents in Ghana - what they thought as possible reasons for self-harm in young people and what actions might be needed at an individual or population level to respond to the problem. METHODS We interviewed face-to-face 11 adults, using a semi-structured interview guide. We used an experiential thematic analysis technique to analyse the transcribed interviews. RESULTS The analysis identified five themes: "underestimating the prevalence of self-harm in adolescents", "life on the streets makes self-harm less likely", "self-harm in adolescents is socially and psychologically understandable", "ambivalence about responding to adolescent self-harm", and "few immediate opportunities for self-harm prevention in Ghana". Adolescent self-harm was acknowledged but its scale was underestimated. The participants offered explanations for adolescent self-harm in social and psychological terms that are recognisable from accounts in high income countries. Low rates among street-connected young people were explained by their overarching orientation for survival. Participants agreed that identification was important, but they expressed a sense of inadequacy in identifying and supporting adolescents at risk of self-harm. Again, the participants agreed that self-harm in adolescents should be prevented, but they recognised that relevant policies were not in place or if there were policies they were not implemented - mental health and self-harm were not high on public or political priorities. CONCLUSIONS The adults we interviewed about young people who self-harm see themselves as having a role in identifying adolescents at risk of self-harm and see the organisations in which they work as having a role in responding to individual young people in need. These are encouraging findings that point to at least one strand of a policy in Ghana for addressing the problem of self-harm in young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel N-B. Quarshie
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 84, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mitch G. Waterman
- grid.9909.90000 0004 1936 8403School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Allan O. House
- grid.9909.90000 0004 1936 8403Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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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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