Qualitative study of suicide ideation among university students in Ghana

University students are at higher risk of suicide than other categories of the population due to the complex mix of the university environment. Using the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS), this study examines the psychosocial circumstances that lead Ghanaian university students, with the case of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, to conceive suicidal ideations and the strategies to prevent suicide attempts. This qualitative research used a case study design. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data to examine the intrapersonal and interpersonal experiences and suicide ideation of 244 students in KNUST. The data revealed that perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness were prevalent suicide ideation risk factors among university students. This study contributes to the existing literature by establishing that suicide mitigation actions (SMAs), such as religious practices and norms, prevent people from attempting suicide even when they have the desire and ability to commit suicide. The findings underscore the importance of social support, family dynamics, and emotional regulation in suicide prevention efforts among the youth. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on suicide ideation in higher education contexts, with implications to improve university students’ mental health support and suicide prevention programs.