Month/Year of Graduation

5-2025

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Richard Stacy

Abstract

The country of Lesotho has the highest suicide mortality rate in the world. Although this is true, there has seldom been research into the cause of this astronomical rate, and even less evaluating how to address the issue. This study focused on the analysis of available data to better understand the possible causes of the high suicide rate in Lesotho. Additionally, a suicidality needs assessment was created to collect data regarding mental health, social support, risk factors, and previous suicidality from Basotho (moniker for residents of Lesotho) in a non-stigmatizing way. Two varying suicidality assessments were used to create this assessment in addition to oversight by a registered suicide crisis counselor, and residents of Lesotho. Researchers suggest that further work is needed to implement the distribution and validation of this assessment. Data from this assessment is to be used for the furthering of our understanding of suicide in Lesotho and the development of a public health strategy to address the issue.

Available for download on Wednesday, May 13, 2026

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