Prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt: associations with psychiatric disorders and HIV/AIDS in post-conflict Northern Uganda

Abstract

Abstract:Background: Research on the prevalence of suicidal ideation, attempt, and cormorbid psychiatric disorders in post-conflict areas is still limited. Aim: We explored the prevalence of suicidal ideation, attempt, associated psychiatric disorders and HIV/AIDS in post-conflict Northern Uganda, an area that experienced civil strife for over two decades. Methods: A total of 2400 respondents (aged 18 and above) and randomly selected in three districts (Gulu, Amuru and Nwoya), were interviewed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess for associations between suicidality (suicidal ideation and attempt) and psychiatric cormorbidities. Results: The prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt were 12.1 % and 6.2 % respectively. Suicidality was significantly (P<0.001) higher among respondents with major depressive disorder (adjusted Odds Ratio (OR) = 9.5; 95%CI= 7.4, 12.1) and post-traumatic stress disorder (adjusted OR =2.4; 95%CI= 1.6, 3.6). Men had lower odds of ideating or attempting suicide compared to women (adjusted OR = 0.55; 95%CI: 0.38, 0.82). Conclusion:The prevalence rate of suicide ideation and attempt indicate a major public health problem in post-conflict Northern Uganda. Effective public mental health programs that that target both suicidality and psychiatric co-morbodities will be vital. Special attention should be given to women in post conflict Northern Uganda.

Stigma and suicidality among people living with HIV attending a secondary healthcare facility in Nigeria

“…Psychological disorders such as depression are known to significantly increase the risk of suicidality. This is in keeping with previously documented research, which have demonstrated a significant relationship between depression and suicidality . It is consistent with the fact that depression reduces functioning and overall quality of life.…”

“…Another study conducted in Benin City, Nigeria also reported similar findings . In the same vein, studies conducted in Uganda, have also reported that the presence of physical comorbidities increased the odds of suicidality . A possible explanation for this is that, having a physical comorbidity is likely to aggravate the impact of the seropositive status on the individual.…”

“…11 In the same vein, studies conducted in Uganda, have also reported that the presence of physical comorbidities increased the odds of suicidality. 13,16 A possible explanation for this is that, having a physical comorbidity is likely to aggravate the impact of the seropositive status on the individual. Consequently, this may lead to much more intense experience of emotional disturbances and perceived stigma.…”

“…Nonetheless, the reported rates of suicidal behaviors in PLWH, differs across studies. The literature reveals that the rates of suicidal ideation among PLWH ranges between 2.9% and about 35%, while suicide attempts range between 2.3% and 20% . Variation in rates may be due to methodological differences, as well as higher rates of underreporting suicidality and completed suicides in low‐income and middle‐income countries compared with high‐income countries .…”

“…Variation in rates may be due to methodological differences, as well as higher rates of underreporting suicidality and completed suicides in low‐income and middle‐income countries compared with high‐income countries . The underreporting of suicides and suicidal behaviors may be explained by the fact that in African cultures, such as in Nigeria, suicide and attempted suicide are considered taboo. Also, attempted suicide is a crime in Nigeria.…”