Country Profile
Ghana
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Are You In A Crisis Right Now?
Ghana
Is Suicide Decriminalised?
Has the country decriminalised suicide, with clear legal frameworks and policy positions?
Yes
Are Crisis Lines Available?
Is free, confidential support from a helpline or hotline available? Status provided by find a helpline.
No
National Suicide Prevention Strategy?
Is there a national suicide prevention strategy, such as from the WHO, and does include decriminalisation, if known?
Yes
Population in Need of Support Per Year
Based on the WHO likely attempted suicide rate.
As a calculation of population size against suicide rate
Strength Of Support (Local Qualitative Assessment)
Population
Suicide Rate Per 100K Per Year, all Sexes (SDG 3.4.2)
per 100,000
WHO 2019 for SDG 3.4.2. Global average 1 per 100,000
Suicide Deaths Per Year (By Population)
per annum
As a calculation of population size against suicide rate
In March 2023, Ghana, officially the Republic of Ghana, made a landmark parliamentary amendment to Ghana's Criminal and Other Offences Act of 1960 and decriminalised suicide.
"Our Journey to provide comprehensive and accessible healthcare for all is ongoing. Together, we can build a nation where mental healthcare is a priority, and every Ghanaian receives the care and support they deserve."
- President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
Ghana's decision to decriminalise suicide represents a significant victory in the battle for mental health recognition and support. By shedding colonial-era laws that criminalised suicidal behaviour, Ghana has taken a crucial step towards improving mental health care and reducing stigma.
This change is seen as a domino effect, inspiring other countries to reconsider their laws and treat suicide as a public health issue rather than a crime. The decriminalisation of suicide in Ghana serves as a beacon of progress, promoting a more compassionate and understanding approach to mental health challenges.
This country profile has been compiled from available research and verified as well as possible. If you wish to supply clarifications, updates, feedback, facts or data, please use the Contact Us form on this page. And if you want your country to take ownership of managing and sharing this information, and progress being made, please register your interest in participating via our Get Involved form.
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