RISK FACTORS AND PREVALENCE OF SUICIDAL BEHAVIOUR AMONG YOUTH IN HIGH SCHOOLS

 


The occurrence of reported suicide cases amongst young population in Society is alarming though many cases go unreported due socio-cultural stigma associated with suicidal act. It is worth noting that suicide in Kenya has become more rampant among the youth than adults and that the majority of reported suicide cases take place in high schools.  The aim of this study is to establish risk factors associated with suicidal ideation among youth in high schools. Methods:  Participants were 200 students drawn from high schools in Kenya. Methods: The participants consisted of male and female students selected through stratified random sampling. After obtaining informed consent, socio-demographic details were recorded. Suicidal ideation was determined by administering the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS) questionnaire on the sample.Results: The dysfunctional family, church, academic pressure media, depression, and relationship problems were risk factors that laid the foundation for suicidal behavior among youths. Suicidal behaviours included thoughts, plans and attempts. The society is becoming more individualistic and hence most people suffer in silence.Conclusion: Suicidal behaviour among youth in high schools poses a significant challenge to mental health practices in high schools. The findings are relevant for promotion of mental health programmes in public learning institutions and facilitate capacity building for teachers especially in counseling, health and social interactions.

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