The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called for stronger suicide prevention measures in Ghana, particularly for young people and other vulnerable groups.

WHO Country Representative to Ghana Dr Fiona Braka made the call in Accra at the launch of activities for the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day.

She said findings from the 2023 Ghana STEPS Survey showed that 3.8% of adults in Ghana had considered suicide, while 2.3% had attempted suicide.

Dr Braka said suicidal thoughts were also common among young people, underscoring the need for targeted prevention interventions.

“Every suicide is a tragedy that has profound social, emotional, and economic consequences for families, for friends, for workplaces, and for communities. In Ghana, the recent evidence highlights the need for continued action,” she said.

She urged stakeholders to sustain efforts to strengthen support systems and ensure that people at risk of suicide receive appropriate care and protection.

Dr Braka also commended the government and Parliament for decriminalising attempted suicide in March 2023.

She described the reform as an important shift from punishment to care and compassion.

“This important reform marked a significant shift from punishment to care and compassion, recognising that suicide and suicidal behavior are public health and mental health concerns that require support, treatment, and protection of human dignity,” she said.