If you are having thoughts of suicide
Thoughts of suicide can feel overwhelming, but they often come in waves, and they do pass. Many people who have felt the way you feel now have found their way through, with support. Right now, it may help to:
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Tell someone. A friend, family member, teacher, pastor, imam or colleague. “I’m not okay and I need to talk.”
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Put time between you and the thoughts. Promise yourself you will not act on them today.
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Make your space safer. Move away from anything you might use to hurt yourself, or ask someone to keep it.
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Avoid alcohol and drugs, which can make painful feelings stronger.
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Go somewhere you feel safer, or be around other people.
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Call our helpline. Talking it through with someone who understands can really help.
You deserve support. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Attempted suicide is no longer a crime in Ghana
Since 2023, anyone who has survived a suicide attempt will be treated as someone who needs care. You will not be arrested or prosecuted. You can seek help from a hospital, a counsellor or our helpline without fear.
Other places to find help
Hospital or clinic
Ask for a mental health nurse, psychologist or doctor.
Psychiatric hospitals
Accra Psychiatric · Pantang · Ankaful
School / university
Your counselling unit.
Mental Health Authority
[Confirm current helpline]
How to help someone else
If you are worried about someone, ask them directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” Asking does not put the idea in their head. It shows you care and gives them permission to talk.
- Listen without judging, and take what they say seriously.
- Stay with them if they are in immediate danger, and call 112.
- Help them contact the helpline, a doctor or a counsellor.
- Look after yourself too. Supporting someone can be hard.
Warning signs
- Talking about wanting to die or being a burden
- Withdrawing from friends, family and activities
- Giving away possessions or saying goodbye
- Sudden calm after a period of deep sadness
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Looking for ways to end their life
Bereaved by suicide
Grief after suicide can bring shock, guilt, anger and questions that may never be fully answered. There is no right way to grieve. Talking to people who understand can help, so call our helpline and we can connect you with support for you and your family.
Self-harm
Self-harm is often a way of coping with overwhelming feelings. It is not attention-seeking, and you deserve care. If you have injured yourself, get medical help. When you are ready, talking to someone can help you find other ways to cope.