A Professor and Consultant Psychiatrist at Obafemi Awolowo University and the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, Prof. Adesanmi Akinsulore, has revealed that Nigeria ranks sixth globally among countries with the highest suicide rates.
He disclosed that men account for 79% of suicides, while women are more prone to suicidal thoughts, emphasising the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address the issue, especially among students.
Akinsulore made these remarks on Monday 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 event, themed, “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.
According to him, 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 environments.
He also highlighted broader risk factors such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, previous suicide attempts, self-injury, loneliness, isolation, and chronic illnesses.
Additionally, interpersonal difficulties, exposure to stigma, and access to lethal means were identified as contributors to suicidal behaviour.
Akinsulore pointed out protective factors that could 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 student 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.
In his remarks, the Founder of The Still Waters Mental Health Foundation, Dr. Oyewole A. Olutunmise, reiterated the need for unity in addressing suicide and mental health challenges.
“This gathering reminds us of the power of unity in addressing one of the most critical issues of our time—suicide and mental health challenges.
The Still Waters Mental Health Foundation was borne from the belief that no one should face their struggles alone,” Dr. Olutunmise said.
He expressed gratitude to the programme sponsors, organising committee, and other stakeholders for their support, stressing the importance of replacing silence with open conversations and fostering hope for the future.
