Exploration of Suicidal Behaviours among Peasant Farmers in the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa (DBI) District

Abstract

Suicide among farmers is a long-standing problem and has received considerable attention within the field of suicidology and beyond. This study investigated the prevalence and impact of suicide among peasant farmers. As a qualitative study, a case study design was used. The study, through snowballing technique sampled 20 peasant farmers that reflected data saturation. The instrument used in collecting data was a semi-structured interview guide adapted from the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale. Data gathered with the scale was analysed qualitatively using thematic approach. The study revealed that suicidal thoughts and behaviours were precipitated mainly through cultural cause, psychological cause, general health cause, spiritual cause, socioenvironmental cause and unavailability of social support services. Again, peasant farmers’ resilience and ability to cope were largely based on selfreliance/ solitary coping mechanism, counselling, relying on faith, prayers, support from relatives and inadequate formal support services. It was concluded that suicide was prevalent among peasant farmers. Therefore, it was recommended that regular public sensitization, effective social support, responsible media reportage, and the amendment or repealing of suicide legislations as panacea for increased identification of potential suicide committers in order to tackle the menace in the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa District, Ghana.