“I have sinned”: understanding the role of religion in the experiences of suicide attempters in Ghana

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the role played by religion in the experiences of persons who attempted suicide in Ghana. Twelve men and 18 women on admission at various hospitals and clinics in Accra were interviewed. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to analyse the data. We found that religion provided a broad context within which the informants' experiences could be understood. All informants acknowledged God as owner of life and death. Whereas the majority reacted to the suicidal act in a way that resonates with their religious system and sought for forgiveness from God, a few reacted in opposition to the system and expressed anger and disappointment in God. Implications of our findings for suicide prevention in Ghana are discussed.

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