Social Demographics and Effective Management of Suicidal Thoughts among Adolescent Learners in Malawi: A Quasi Experimental Study, Southern Malawi

Abstract

The high percentage of psycho-social challenges like suicidal thoughts among adolescents is a global health threat. The main purpose of this study was to explore an effective way of managing suicidal thoughts among adolescents in Zomba, Malawi. A non-equivalent group quasi-experimental study design guided the study. 317 adolescent learners from two secondary schools were targeted, and a quantitative method was utilized. The study observed psycho-social service deficiencies within the secondary schools. The prevalence of suicidal thoughts was 26%. The intervention at the study site was able to reduce the prevalence of suicidal thoughts by 1.7% [26% (before intervention) to 24% (after intervention)]. Control Site: the prevalence increased by 6% [8% (before intervention) to 14% (after intervention)]. The study observed suicidal thoughts are prevalent among adolescent learners, and there are psycho-social service gaps. The study findings will help relevant stakeholders to be aware of the suicidal thoughts that adolescent learners are experiencing in secondary schools and how to manage them.