Toward integrating clinical and non-clinical associates of suicidality to inform potential intervention points among youth in Nairobi metropolitan, Kenya - UTU Research Portal

A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Toward integrating clinical and non-clinical associates of suicidality to inform potential intervention points among youth in Nairobi metropolitan, Kenya

Authors: Ndetei, David; Wasserman, Danuta; Mutiso, Victoria; Bhui, Kamaldeep; Shanley, Jenelle; Musyimi, Christine; Winter, Samantha; Nyamai, Pascalyne; Walusaka, Samuel; Onyango, Veronica; Jeremiah, Eric; Osborn, Tom Lee; Swahn, Monica; Sourander, Andre; Mamah, Daniel

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Publication year: 2026

Journal: Cambridge Prisms: Global Mental Health

Article number: e33

Volume: 13

eISSN: 2054-4251

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/gmh.2026.10148

Publication's open availability at the time of reporting: Open Access

Publication channel's open availability : Open Access publication channel

Web address : https://doi.org/10.1017/gmh.2026.10148

Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/515790069

Self-archived copy's licence: CC BY

Self-archived copy's version: Publisher`s PDF

Abstract

Suicide is a significant global public health concern, particularly among adolescents, with substantial implications for economies, societies and individuals’ mental well-being. Understanding its patterns and intention and psychosocial determinants in a given context can suggest potential intervention points. This population-based cross-sectional study aimed to document suicidal ideas, behaviors and intensity among youths aged 14 to 25 in the Nairobi metropolitan area and associated socio-economic position, demographic indicators and potential intervention points. A diverse sample of 1,972 participants was recruited from urban and peri-urban settings within the Nairobi metropolitan area. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression. Our findings confirm a high prevalence of suicidal ideas and behavior in the youth (19.9% and 3.6%, respectively), with very few significant differences between the urban and peri-urban areas. The severity of suicidal ideation and behavior reported methods and reasons, and the socio-demographic profile of participants, point to multiple potential intervention targets. These findings ought to be used to design, manage and evaluate suicide prevention programs.

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Funding information in the publication:
This study was funded by National Institutes of Health (NIH), Grant/Award number: 5R01MH127571–02.