Economic hardship, unemployment are high-risk factors increasing suicide rates -MHA Boss

Chief Executive of Mental Health Authority Prof. Pinaman Appau has cited economic hardship, unemployment and social instability as high-risk factors contributing to the rising cases of suicides in the country. Speaking in an event to mark Word Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday September 9, 2024, the Chief Executive of Mental Health Authority Prof. Pinaman Appau said “The harsh reality of economic hardship, unemployment, and social instability being high-risk factors for increased suicide rates cannot be ignored”.

Read the full Welcome Address by the CE of the Mental Health Authority of Ghana

World Suicide Prevention Day Forum

10th September 2024
Accra, Ghana

Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, members of the security services, our media partners, ladies and gentlemen.
It is an honour to welcome you on behalf of the Mental Health Authority to this very important forum marking World Suicide Prevention Day for the year 2024. Allow me to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for joining us in this crucial dialogue, particularly our devoted mental health practitioners, the dedicated members of our security forces and of course, all
stakeholders in the mental health fraternity who work tirelessly to push the mental health agenda in Ghana.

As we gather here in Accra, we join millions around the world in recognizing the significance of suicide prevention. This year’s theme, as set by the World Health Organization, is “Changing the narrative on suicide.” This theme challenges us to rethink how we approach, discuss, and address suicide in our communities. Suicide is an unrelenting public health concern that spans every corner of society, and yet has for too long been shrouded in silence, stigma and shame. Today we continue to build on the steps towards breaking the silence and fostering a more compassionate,
informed, and proactive approach to suicide prevention.

Mr Chairman, the challenges faced in addressing suicide are multifaceted and complex. In Ghana, as in many parts of the world, we grapple with stigma surrounding mental health issues, limited access to mental health services, and a general lack of awareness of suicide prevention strategies. These challenges are further compounded by deepening socio-economic challenges in
our societies today.

Indeed, the harsh reality of economic hardship, unemployment, and social instability being high-risk factors for increased suicide rates cannot be ignored. It is our collective responsibility to recognize these risk factors and work to mitigate their impact. The implications and effects of suicide on our society are profound and far-reaching. Each life lost to suicide is not only a personal tragedy, but a loss to families, communities, and the nation as a whole. The ripple effect of suicide leaves behind a trail of grief, guilt, and unanswered questions.

Moreover, the economic cost of suicide and suicide attempts, in terms of health care
expenses and lost productivity, places an additional burden on our already strained resources.

Mr Chairman, ladies and gentlemen, suicide is preventable, and each one of us has a role to play in preventing it. It is essential that we shift the conversation from one of stigma and blame to one of understanding, compassion, and proactive intervention; working together to foster an environment where mental health is prioritized, and support is readily available to everyone. As
we continue to advocate for robust suicide prevention measures and promotion of general mental well-being across all sectors of society, we must also fortify and encourage patronage of our existing response systems such as the Mental Health Authority Crisis Helpline.

Today, we gather not only to remember those we have lost but also to empower ourselves with
knowledge and resources to prevent future tragedies ensuring that their stories lead to action, awareness, and change. With increased advocacy for mental health education as well as its integration into school curricula, increased access to mental health services, promotion of community-based support initiatives, development of targeted interventions for high-risk groups
such as the youth, the elderly, and those of low socioeconomic status; we would be steps closer to achieving our goal of changing the narrative surrounding suicide and mental health in Ghana.
Robust research and data collection on suicide and suicide attempts in Ghana would also inform effective policies and interventions.

Mr Chairman, let me conclude by urging each of us here to pay keen attention and take this
message back to our communities, our homes, our offices, and our places of worship. Let us move from silence to open dialogue, from stigma to understanding, and from despair to hope. Every conversation we have and every hand we extend in support devoid of judgment and
reproach, brings us closer to a Ghana where suicide is no longer a silent crisis. Together, let us build a future where mental health is prioritized, and seeking help is seen as a sign of strength instead of weakness, a society where every individual feels valued and supported. Let us each in our own small way, be catalysts for the change we wish to see.

Thank you all for heeding our invitation and for your unwavering commitment and dedication to
this crucial cause. May our collective efforts light the way towards a brighter, more
compassionate future for all Ghanaians. I hope you find this forum both insightful and enjoyable.

Thank you.