Role of social workers and community engagement in suicide prevention in Nigeria

The effects of suicide are profound and long-lasting on families and communities, affecting the marginalized, vulnerable, and the well-to-do members of the community. Suicide is a public health issue in Nigeria and globally. Nigeria's suicide rate seems to be increasing in recent times. Suicide result from a variety of societal, psychological, and cultural factors. Social workers work in a variety of settings are important human service providers when it comes to intervening with members of the community and families, they work with vulnerable and marginalized groups and play a crucial role. Community engagement brings together the skills, knowledge, and experiences of diverse groups to create and/or implement solutions that work for all members of the community. The study discussed the functions of social workers and the role community members can play in mitigating suicide. Social workers can function as gatekeepers, case workers, clinicians, counselors, psychotherapists, community workers, researchers, trainers, and so on. Suicide prevention education should be included in school curricula