- Ghana recorded 134 suicide deaths in 2024 — a 40% increase from 2023.
- 1,174 suicide attempts were reported in 2024, with 475 more in early 2025.
- Mental Health Authority calls for urgent action and outlines a national strategy.
- Key priorities include education, training, funding, and cross-sector partnerships.
- Media urged to report responsibly and help reduce stigma.
Ghana recorded 134 deaths by suicide in 2024 — a staggering 40% increase from the previous year — according to new data released by the Mental Health Authority. The report also revealed that 1,174 people attempted suicide during the same period, with 475 additional attempts already reported in the first half of 2025.
The figures, drawn from the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS), were shared during a press briefing to mark World Suicide Prevention Day 2025. Acting Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority, Dr Eugene K Dordoye, described the trend as “disturbing” and called for urgent national action.
Dr Dordoye outlined key priorities for Ghana’s suicide prevention strategy, including:
- Expanding public education and awareness to reduce stigma
- Training frontline workers to recognize early warning signs
- Securing sustainable funding through the Mental Health Fund
- Strengthening partnerships across government, civil society, and local communities
He also urged the media to adopt responsible reporting practices, guided by World Health Organization (WHO) standards — avoiding sensationalism and graphic detail, while promoting stories of resilience and publicizing helplines.
The Mental Health Authority’s statement comes amid growing concern over recent cases, including the alleged suicide of a university student and a police officer in Duayaw Nkwanta. Experts say these incidents reflect deeper systemic gaps in mental health support and public engagement.
As Ghana confronts this rising crisis, the call for coordinated, compassionate intervention has never been louder.
