Nigeria has been reportedly ranked as sixth globally among countries with the highest suicide rates.
A professor and Consultant Psychiatrist at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, Prof.
Adesanmi Akinsulore, made the revelation during a lecture at an event organised by The Still Waters Mental Health Foundation, held at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Ogbomoso, Oyo State.
The professor asserted that men account for 79 percent of suicides, while women are more prone to suicidal thoughts, emphasising the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address the issue, especially among students.
The event with the theme: “Navigating the storm: Unraveling the intricacies of suicides amongst students,” focused on understanding and preventing suicide in educational institutions.
He described suicide as a major public health concern, noting that it was the third leading cause of death globally among individuals aged 15 to 29 in 2021. The academic stated that while suicide is a personal tragedy, it has devastating social, emotional and economic consequences.
The psychiatrist attributed school-related risk factors for suicide to various challenges, including difficulties in accessing psychological care, stigma associated with seeking help, discrimination due to disabilities or physical differences, academic failure and a lack of supportive school environment.
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He also highlighted broader risk factors such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, previous suicide attempts, self-injury, loneliness, isolation and chronic illnesses, adding that inter-personal difficulties, exposure to stigma and access to lethal means were identified as contributors to suicidal behaviour.
Prf. Akinsulore pointed out protective factors that can mitigate suicide risks, including strong parental support, social involvement, mentorship and accessible student support services.
“There is one suicide for every 25 attempts. In 2021, suicide was the third leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year-olds globally,” he said.
He called for collective responsibility in tackling suicide, urging schools, communities and stakeholders to prioritise mental health, combat stigma and ensure access to resources for students well-being.
“Navigating the storm is a collective responsibility. We must work together to create a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes student well-being and resilience,” he said.
