Suicidal behaviours among deaf adolescents in Ghana: A cross-sectional study

The study examined the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts among deaf adolescents in Ghana and identified factors associated with these behaviours. The researchers used a cross-sectional, anonymous self-report survey involving a nationally representative sample of 450 school-going deaf adolescents. The data were analysed using bivariate and multivariable statistical methods.

The findings showed that 19.3% of the participants had seriously considered attempting suicide during the previous 12 months, while 15.6% had attempted suicide during the same period. Alcohol use and parental divorce were associated with increased likelihood of both suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. In contrast, higher levels of subjective mental well-being reduced the likelihood of both behaviours. Living without either parent and being a final-year student were associated with suicidal ideation, while male participants were more likely to report a suicide attempt.

The study concludes that suicidal behaviours among deaf adolescents in Ghana are comparable to those reported among hearing adolescents in Ghana and other low- and middle-income African countries. It recommends targeted and universal interventions to prevent suicidal thoughts and their possible progression to suicide attempts and death.