Suicide attempt and its determinants among adolescents and youth in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundSuicide is a critical public health concern globally, and adolescents and youth are particularly vulnerable. In Ethiopia, suicide attempts among this population are alarmingly prevalent, yet the magnitude and determinants remain insufficiently understood. A systematic review and meta-analysis are essential to comprehensively synthesize the evidence and guide targeted interventions. This review aims to establish a pooled prevalence and identify factors associated with suicide attempts among adolescents and youth aged 10-24 years in Ethiopia.MethodsA systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, African Journal Online (AJOL), and Google Scholar. The quality of each original study was assessed with a modified Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool tailored for cross-sectional research. The Cochrane Q and I-2 test statistics were used to assess heterogeneity across studies. A random effects model was employed to calculate the pooled estimate of suicide attempts among adolescents and youth.ResultsThe pooled estimate of suicide attempts among Ethiopian adolescents and youth covering the age range from 10 to 24 years was 12.38% (95% CI: 8.72, 16.05). Key associated factors included being female (POR = 2.31; 95% CI: 1.44, 3.71), poor social support (POR = 3.44; 95% CI: 1.89, 6.23), a family history of suicide attempts (POR = 5.67; 95% CI: 3.98, 8.08), and disappointing school results (POR = 3.16; 95% CI: 2.33, 4.28).ConclusionThe study reveals that nearly one in eight adolescents and youth in Ethiopia have experienced a suicide attempt. Being female, experiencing poor social support, having disappointing academic results, and having a family history of suicide attempts are significant risk factors. The Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), policymakers, and stakeholders should prioritize mental health initiatives aimed at prevention, establishing school support systems, raising community awareness, and providing family counseling services.Clinical trial numberNot applicable.