Abstract
Suicide related deaths increase amongst students at institutions of higher learning is a challenge in academia. There is evidence that some institutions of higher learning provide mental health care for students in South Africa (SA). However, there seem to be a gap between services offered in relation to the prevention of suicide involving students. As such, suicide amongst students continues to increase. In 2018 at least 23 suicide attempts were reported from an institution in the Gauteng Province. The recent suicide related deaths in South African universities can be interpreted as the inability of students to cope with the pressures of being at university for various reasons. The aim of the study is to explore and describe the perspectives of tertiary students about the adequacy of mental health in addressing suicide related issues. The Social-Ecological Suicide Prevention Model (SESPM) is the theoretical framework that underpinned the study, and is qualitative in nature, using exploratory design. The population consisted of students registered in one of the universities. Non-probability sampling was used to select ten participants who met specific criteria. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data. Data was analyzed using six step thematic analysis. Results show that there is a need to incorporate suicide prevention strategies on campus and off campus. It is the researchers hope that the results can contribute towards helping the university put in place and implement strategies that are informed by students’ needs.
Presenters
Nyameka MbonambiLecture/Academic Researcher, School of Human and Community Development, Wits University, South Africa
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Health Promotion and Education
KEYWORDS
Institutions of higher learning, University student, Suicide prevention strategies
