The Mental Health Authority (MHA) says that Ghanaians need to be educated to recognise signs of suicide as identifying these signs can help save a life.

Each year, the global community observes World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.

The theme for the suicide prevention day in 2024, "Changing the Narrative," explains the importance of initiating open conversations about suicide.

In a press release signed by the Chief Executive of the MHA on September 10, it said MHA has mobilised stakeholders, including security and media personnel, to boost nationwide awareness and education.

“Ghanaians everywhere need to be educated to recognise subtle signs, which may include changes in behavior like withdrawal from social interactions, neglect of personal hygiene, or making statements that suggest guilt or a desire to die, such as "I wish I was never born" or "I wish I don't wake up."

“Though these statements may be overlooked or dismissed, they may very well reflect suicidal ideations, and paying close attention may help save a life.”

The statement emphasised that the MHA's goal is to break the silence and dispel the stigma surrounding suicidal behaviour by addressing the issue on the streets, homes, markets, offices, and schools.

It said the district health information management systems indicated that Ghana recorded 543 attempted suicides and 81 completed suicides in the first half of 2024, noting this represents an alarming increase compared to the 594 attempts and 48 completed suicides recorded for the entire year of 2023.

"The surge is especially concerning as many of those affected by suicide worldwide are young (15-29 years),” part of the statement read.

According to the Authority, Greater Accra, Eastern, and Central regions reported the highest numbers of suicide attempts in the first half of 2024, with Greater Accra also recording the most completed suicides.

The MHA also said that discussions about suicide have been met with discomfort, and misconceptions like talking about suicide suggest the act and increase the likelihood of death.

However, it said research has shown that speaking openly about suicide can actually be lifesaving.

“It is crucial to pay attention to children and adolescents, as some studies in Ghana have shown a high prevalence of suicidal behaviors among students. One such study, Azasu and Joe, 2023, found a prevalence of 20.4% for suicidal thoughts, 23.4% for suicide planning, and 28.4% for actual suicide attempts among junior and senior high school students,” the MHA said.

With suicide now decriminalised in Ghana, the Mental Health Authority encouraged everyone to remain vigilant and seek help when needed.