Accessing the Risk Factors Associated with Suicide in Anambra State Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The impact of covid-19 has heightened the cases of depression among the people as a result of the loss of sources of livelihood and loved ones, among other factors. The situation is further worsened with the increasing cost of livelihood and limited options for the people therefore it is important to examine the associated risk factors of suicide including the gender more vulnerable to suicide and the way to minimize the occurrence of suicide in Anambra state within the COVID-19 Pandemic. 625 respondents were selected using Yamani (1967) formula equation and multistage sampling procedure was used to select the study population. Data were collected with the use of questionnaire instrument and in-depth interview guide. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 27.0) was employed to perform analysis of quantitative data while data obtained was presented, described and interpreted using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data generated from the in-depth interviews were manually analyzed. The result revealed that poverty, loneliness, loss of job/business, and hike in food price were the major risk factors associated with suicide during Covid-19 with poverty taking the lead; more so, males are more vulnerable to suicide and suicidal ideation than female in Anambra State, among others. A suicide prevention program tailored to the specific needs of the Anambra population should be developed and implemented by stakeholders. Promoting resilience and coping skills should be at the forefront of suicide prevention programs in addition to raising awareness, providing support, and dealing with mental health disorders. (a) The covid 19 measures such as total lock down, compulsory test, isolation, social distancing etc. increased the risk factors of suicide in the state. (b) Poverty is the major risk factor associated with suicide therefore the government need to tackle anything that increases the rate of poverty in the state. (c) In as much both genders commit suicide, men are more vulnerable and should be paid more attention to. They should also be allowed to speak up and express themselves, not hiding under the umbrella of “men don’t cry.