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A mixed method study on suicidal behavior among people with bipolar disorder in Rwanda
Maja Bendtsen1,2, Nelly Umulisa Rurangwa3, Caroline Juhl Arnbjerg3,4
1Competence Center of Transcultural Psychiatry, Mental Health Center Ballerup, Copenhagen University Hospital - Mental Health Services CPH, Ballerup, Denmark.
Nordic Journal of Psychiatry
|June 3, 2025
Summary
Suicidal behavior in Rwandan bipolar disorder outpatients was 18.3%, lower than global rates. Strong social support and religion acted as protective factors, highlighting the need for de-stigmatization and better mental health care.
Area of Science:
- Global mental health
- Psychiatry
- Public health
Background:
- Suicide disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries.
- Mental health disorders, particularly bipolar disorder, are significant risk factors for suicide.
- Bipolar disorder is associated with high rates of suicidal behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of suicidal behavior in outpatients with bipolar disorder in Rwanda.
- To explore the experiences and contributing factors of suicidal behavior in this population.
- To identify protective factors and potential interventions for suicidal behavior.
Main Methods:
- Mixed methods design combining quantitative and qualitative data.
- Quantitative assessment of suicidal behavior prevalence.
- Qualitative in-depth interviews using a phenomenological approach.
Main Results:
- 18.3% of 131 outpatients with bipolar disorder reported attempted suicide.
- Mental pain, hardship, loneliness, and stigmatization were identified as drivers of suicidal behavior.
- Social support, religion, and mental health services emerged as protective factors.
Conclusions:
- Suicidal behavior prevalence in Rwanda was lower than global estimates, possibly due to strong community support.
- De-stigmatizing mental health disorders and suicide is crucial.
- Improved access to quality mental health care in Rwanda is necessary.
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