The Upper West Region has seen a sharp increase in suicide attempts in the first half of 2025, raising serious concerns among health officials and community leaders.
According to regional data, 26 cases were reported between January and June. Of these, 3 were males and 23 were females.
This represents a dramatic rise compared to 9 cases in 2023 and 12 in 2024. Sadly, the region also recorded one completed suicide involving a man during this period.
Basagnia Sylvester, the Regional Mental Health Officer, linked the spike to a combination of stressors, including relationship problems, depression, alcohol abuse, bipolar disorder, and substance use.
He noted that the majority of those affected were between the ages of 26 and 43.
“This age group is particularly vulnerable due to the pressures they face, financial, emotional, and social. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s essential to seek help,” Sylvester said.
National figures reflect a similar trend, with 543 attempted suicides and 81 completed suicides recorded across Ghana in the first half of 2024. Globally, suicide claims more than 700,000 lives each year.
As September is recognised worldwide for suicide prevention awareness, health workers and stakeholders in the Upper West Region have pledged to step up education and outreach efforts to curb the trend.
