Nigerian psychiatrists back suicide law reform, demand action on hardship

Seasoned psychiatrists in Nigeria have welcomed the Federal Executive Council's approval to amend the Mental Health Act, which would decriminalize suicide. While calling it a significant milestone, they emphasize that legal reform alone is insufficient to prevent suicidal behavior.

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The impact extends beyond the individuals involved; it affects families, friends and communities, with over 450,000 Nigerians requiring psychosocial support annually.

The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) stated that suicide should be treated as a public health and mental health concern, not a criminal act. However, they stressed that preventing suicide requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root socioeconomic challenges contributing to mental distress.

APN President Dr. Veronica Nyamali and Secretary Prof. Kingsley Okonoda highlighted that factors influencing mental health extend beyond the healthcare system. They urged the Federal Government to implement interventions that improve living conditions and access to mental healthcare. These include addressing economic hardship, unemployment, rising costs of living, and insecurity.

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It is equally important to recognise that the causes and drivers of mental illness and suicidal behaviour extend far beyond the traditional boundaries of the health sector.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, noted that the reform aims to reduce suicide deaths and attempts by 15 percent by 2030. He cited World Health Organization data indicating over 7,000 annual deaths and an estimated 300,000 suicide attempts in Nigeria each year, impacting families and communities. Globally, suicide is a leading cause of death among young people.

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Mental health is profoundly shaped by the social determinants of health, economic hardship, unemployment and underemployment, rising transportation costs, poor roads, inadequate housing, unsafe communities, unreliable electricity and water supply, food insecurity, and the escalating cost of living, among others.