Suicidal Behaviours among School-Going Blind Adolescents in Ghana

Abstract

This study examined suicidal behaviours among school-going blind adolescents in Ghana. Specifically, the study aimed to estimate the 12-month prevalence, associated factors, reasons for living, and motivations for suicidal behaviours among school-going blind adolescents in Ghana. The study employed a researcher-administered questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey approach. The theoretical framework adopted for the study was the Ecological System theory. Data were collected at the Akropong School for the Blind in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The study involved a sample of 191 school-going blind adolescents. Bivariate and multivariable data analyses were performed. The prevalence of suicidal ideation in the overall sample was 24.6% (95% CI: 18.7–31.3). There were no statistically significant differences between genders, as females reported a slightly higher prevalence of 25.0% (95% CI: 16.0 36.0) compared to males at 24.3% (95% CI: 16.7–33.4). Physical abuse also showed a significant association with suicidal behaviours, with victimized adolescents reporting suicidal ideation at 46.0% and attempts at 44.0%, compared to much lower rates among those without such experiences (17.0% for ideation and 16.3% for attempts). It is therefore recommended that programs aimed at preventing physical abuse should be strengthened in both schools and homes. Accessible support services should also be provided for school going blind adolescents as this will be crucial in reducing suicidal behaviours.