The Role of Guidance and Counselling Services in Obviating Suicide Among Secondary School Students in Ikot Ekpene L.g.a of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

ABSTRACTThis study is to investigate the influence of 'Guidance and Counselling Services on Suicide Obviating Among Secondary School Students in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria'. In order to achieve the main purpose of the study, four (4) hypotheses were formulated, and four research questions were raised to direct the study. Literature was reviewed based on the variables identified for the study. A survey research design was adopted for the study, two hundred and fourth (240) respondents were drawn as sample from (10) secondary schools in the study area. A twenty (25) item questionnaire was designed for the study. Independent t-test was used to test the hypotheses. The result revealed that there was significant influence of guidance and counselling services on anxiety/depression as a valid construct for suicidal tendencies among secondary school students. It was concluded that students who participated in the intervention services had reduced suicidal tendencies than those who did not. Based on the result, the following recommendations were made: government and policy-makers should develop and implement programs that prioritize student's health and wellbeing and additional academic support services to help students manage academic stress and improve performance. School managements should conduct regular mental health awareness campaigns in schools to educate students, teachers and parents about the signs and symptoms of anxiety/depression and suicidal tendencies.vi