Christian Teachings and Adolescent Suicide Prevention in Kenya: A Study of Mawego Deanery, Catholic Diocese of Homa Bay

Abstract

Adolescent suicide is an increasing public health, psychological, and pastoral concern worldwide, with rising cases reported in Kenya despite the significant role of religious institutions in promoting moral values and psychosocial support. Christian teachings emphasize the sanctity of human life, hope, compassion, forgiveness, and communal responsibility, which may strengthen adolescents' emotional wellbeing and reduce suicidal behaviour. However, limited empirical evidence exists on the influence of these teachings within Catholic communities in Kenya. This study assessed the effect of Christian teachings on adolescent suicide prevention in Mawego Deanery, Catholic Diocese of Homa Bay. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design guided by a mixed-methods approach was adopted. Data were collected from adolescents, clergy, catechists, parish leaders, teachers, parents, and local administrators using questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that Christian teachings significantly contribute to adolescent suicide prevention by promoting hope, reinforcing the sanctity of life, strengthening moral responsibility, fostering resilience, and encouraging adolescents to seek spiritual and psychosocial support. However, challenges such as inadequate mental health awareness, limited counselling services, and weak collaboration between religious and mental health professionals constrained their effectiveness. The study concludes that Christian teachings are an important protective factor against adolescent suicide when integrated with pastoral care, family support, and community-based mental health interventions. It recommends strengthening faith-based counselling, enhancing adolescent catechetical formation, training clergy and youth ministers in mental health, and fostering partnerships between the Church, families, schools, and healthcare providers to improve adolescent suicide prevention.