Gambia

Epidemiology of Suicide

Overall Statistics

• Current Suicide Rate (per 100,000 people): 6.6 (2019 data). (org)
• Trend Analysis:

• • Last 5 Years: Suicide rates in The Gambia have remained relatively low but may be underreported due to cultural stigma and limited mental health resources.

Demographic-Specific Insights

1. By Gender:

1. • Male Suicide Rate: Higher than females, consistent with global trends.
   • Female Suicide Rate: Lower, but women face mental health challenges related to domestic violence, societal pressures, and economic insecurity.

2. By Age Groups:

1. • Adolescents (15–24): Suicide is a concern among youth, often linked to unemployment, academic stress, and family conflict.
   • Elderly (60+): Limited data is available, but social isolation and health-related challenges contribute to risks.

3. Rural vs. Urban:

1. • Suicide rates are higher in rural areas due to limited mental health services, isolation, and economic hardship.

4. Special Groups:

1. • Refugees and marginalized populations face elevated risks due to trauma, economic challenges, and lack of psychosocial support.

Suicide Prevention Innovations

National Strategies and Policies

• Overview: The Gambia does not have a formalized national suicide prevention strategy. Mental health care is integrated into the broader healthcare system and supported by international organizations.
• Key Elements:

• • Training healthcare workers in mental health and suicide prevention.
  • Public awareness initiatives to reduce stigma and promote mental health services.

Specific Initiatives and Campaigns

1. Public Awareness Campaigns:

1. • Limited campaigns are organized by NGOs and international organizations to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.

2. Programs Targeting High-Risk Groups:

1. • Youth-focused initiatives aim to address stress and build resilience in schools.
   • Community-based programs provide support in rural areas.

3. Collaborative Efforts:

1. • Partnerships with WHO, UNICEF, and NGOs to improve access to mental health services and training for healthcare workers.

Innovative Tools and Approaches

• Community-Based Interventions:

• • Training for local health workers and community leaders to identify and support individuals at risk of suicide.
  • Peer support groups are being introduced in some communities.

• Mobile Clinics:

• • Mobile health services are utilized to reach remote populations with mental health care.

Additional Insights

• Cultural Considerations:

• • Mental health stigma is prevalent in The Gambia, often compounded by traditional beliefs attributing mental illness to spiritual causes.
  • Family and community support systems are critical in providing mental health care.

• Research and Data Gaps:

• • Comprehensive data on suicide rates among marginalized groups, such as LGBTQIA+ individuals and refugees, is lacking.

• Positive Developments:

• • Increased collaboration with international organizations highlights The Gambia’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges and suicide prevention.

References

1. World Bank. (2019). The Gambia – Suicide Mortality Rate (per 100,000 Population). Retrieved from https://data.worldbank.org/
2. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in The Gambia. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/
3. UNICEF Gambia. (n.d.). Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/gambia/
4. Ministry of Health, The Gambia. (n.d.). Healthcare Services Overview. Retrieved from https://www.moh.gov.gm/
5. Médecins Sans Frontières. (n.d.). Mental Health Support for Vulnerable Populations in The Gambia. Retrieved from https://www.msf.org/