Attempted suicide in Ghana: Motivation, stigma and coping
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Date
2015
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor & Francis Online
Abstract
To understand the experiences of suicidal persons in Ghana, 10 persons were interviewed after they attempted suicide. Thematic analysis of data showed that motivation for suicidal behavior included social taunting, hopelessness, and partner's infidelity. Suicidal persons reported stigma expressed through physical molestation and social ostracism, which left them traumatized. However, they coped through social support from relations, religious faith, and use of avoidance. Community-wide sensitive education should target reducing stigma and also increase mental health education on suicidal behavior in Ghanaian communities.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Ghana, suicide, stigma, coping strategy
Citation
Joseph Osafo, Charity Sylvia Akotia, Johnny Andoh-Arthur & Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie (2015) Attempted Suicide in Ghana: Motivation, Stigma, and Coping, Death Studies, 39:5, 274-280, DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2014.991955