ABSTRACT
Suicide is one of the most serious social and public health problems in the world as it is currently the third leading cause of death for youths between the ages of 15 and 30 years. Youth suicidal behaviour has continuous to be a significant national problem in need of urgent attention by Nigeria government. Common risk factors of suicide behaviour among Nigerian youths were examined in this study. A descriptive method was adopted and data was collected via a survey of 500 respondents in five tertiary educational institutions in Edo State. Data analysis was performed using percentages, means, t-test, and correlation and regression analysis. Findings indicated that depression and mental illness, Anxiety and stress, sexual violence, substance use, unemployment and poverty, and interpersonal conflict were the major risk factors predicting suicide behaviours among youths in Edo State. Thus, the study recommends among others that greater emphasis should be placed on encouraging healthy peer relationships among youths. This is because social cohesiveness and tolerance have been shown to improve the mental well-being of young people.
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