Abstract

The study investigated the risk factors associated with suicide ideation and suicide attempts among youths in Ilorin metropolis. The research employed a mixed-method approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. A sample of 300 respondents, comprising 280 questionnaire respondents and 20 interviewees, was selected using quota sampling and simple random techniques. The variables considered in the study were gender, age, religion, and occupation. Data was collected using the "Risk Factors for Suicidal Ideation and Attempt Questionnaire" (RFSIAQ). Quantitative data analysis techniques such as percentages, means, rank order analysis, t-tests, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were employed, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. The findings revealed that depression, hopelessness, and mental illness were significant risk factors for suicide ideation and attempts. Qualitative data further highlighted social factors (discrimination, betrayal, stigmatization, harassment), family factors (separated homes, divorce, sexual abuse/rape, marriage failure, infertility, unwanted pregnancy, bereavement, heavy responsibility, parental pressure), and financial issues as contributing risk factors. The study also identified potential preventive measures, including seminars, behavioural therapy, family support, encouraging open communication, and job creation. Interestingly, the results indicated no significant differences in the risk factors for suicide ideation and attempts based on gender, age, religion, or occupation among the emerging adults in Ilorin metropolis.Based on the findings, the study recommended prioritizing interventions that address depression, hopelessness, mental illness, sexual violence, child abuse, and sexual harassment by public health authorities. Additionally, it suggested developing and integrating a locally designed suicide education program into the educational curriculum to raise awareness and prevent suicide ideation and attempts among youths.