The Prevalence and Patterns of Suicidal Ideation Among In‑School Adolescents in Ogun State, Nigeria: A mixed-method survey
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63950/gshh.2026.2.1.42Keywords:
Adolescent, Adolescent Mental Health, Suicide Ideation, Prevalence, Risk Factors, Protective Factors, NigeriaAbstract
Introduction: This study aimed to determine the prevalence, patterns, and associated factors of suicidal ideation among in-school adolescents in Ogun State, Nigeria.
Methods: A mixed-methods design was employed, comprising a cross-sectional survey of 1,444 adolescents aged 10–19 years from 16 secondary schools, and qualitative in-depth interviews with eight adolescents reporting suicidal ideation and their parents. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate tests, and multivariate logistic regression; qualitative data were analysed thematically.
Results: The prevalence of suicidal ideation was 3.9% (95% CI: 3.0–5.1). Mid-adolescents (14–16 years) and those in Senior Secondary Schools had significantly higher odds of suicidal ideation. Key risk factors included previous suicide attempts, living without both parents, psychological disorders (attention deficit, conduct disorder, PTSD, eating disorders), economic hardship, excessive internet use, family instability, childhood sexual violence, and insomnia. Protective factors included high self-esteem, strong social support, a sense of purpose in life, agreeableness, emotional stability, openness, grit, and self-care coping strategies. Thematic analysis of interviews highlighted the lived experiences of adolescents, revealing the role of stigma, secrecy, and cultural taboos surrounding mental health, as well as the protective roles of supportive relationships, religious faith, and personal coping strategies.
Conclusion: Suicidal ideation among in-school adolescents in Ogun State is influenced by a complex interplay of individual, interpersonal, and socio-economic factors. School-based mental health screening, resilience-building programs, and family-focused interventions are recommended to mitigate risk and promote protective factors.
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The datasets used and analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Abiodun O, Lowery Wilson M, Torty C, Agbor IE (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
