380. The patterns of trauma, experiences and association with suicidality among young adults in Western Kenya

Abstract

Abstract Background Trauma exposure is a significant predictor of later psychopathology, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidality. Global evidence consistently demonstrates that individuals exposed to physical, sexual, or emotional abuse face increased risk of self-harm and suicide. In sub-Saharan Africa, these vulnerabilities are magnified by structural inequalities, gender-based violence, and limited access to care. In Kenya, national data indicate that nearly half of adults have experienced severe trauma, with PTSD prevalence estimated at 10.6%. Despite this burden, little is known about the relationship between trauma and suicidality among clinical populations receiving tertiary mental health care. This study utilizes secondary data extracted from NeuroGAP—the largest African genetic and psychiatric epidemiology study—to investigate trauma patterns and suicidality among adults in Western Kenya. NeuroGAP systematically screened participants for trauma (PC-PTSD), PTSD symptoms, and suicidality (C-SSRS), providing a uniquely robust dataset. A total of 3,150 participants were screened for trauma exposure, and 1,952 were assessed for suicidality. Additional analyses of narrative clinical notes allow exploration of lived experiences and contextual contributors to risk. Aims & Objectives Specific objectives To describe the prevalence, types, and severity of traumatic experiences among young adults receiving tertiary mental health care. To determine the prevalence and characteristics of suicidality (ideation, plans, and attempts) within this population. To analyze the association between specific trauma profiles and suicidality, controlling for key sociodemographic and clinical factors. Method The study employs a nested cross-sectional design. Quantitative analyses will summarize sociodemographic characteristics, trauma types, and suicidality prevalence. Bivariate and multivariate analyses will examine associations between trauma profiles and suicidality while adjusting for key clinical and demographic confounders. Qualitative data from clinical narratives will be thematically analyzed to illuminate psychosocial contexts, cumulative adversity, and barriers to care. Results This study will generate context-specific insights into how trauma exposure shapes suicidality among adults in tertiary mental health settings. Findings are expected to identify high-risk trauma patterns, highlight clinical service gaps, and inform trauma-informed care models. Results will also support policy-level suicide prevention efforts and strengthen capacity-building initiatives for mental health workers in Kenya. Discussion & Conclusions By leveraging NeuroGAP, Africa’s largest psychiatric genetic and epidemiological dataset—this study will contribute significant evidence toward understanding trauma–suicidality pathways in African contexts. Ultimately, the research aims to guide early detection, risk assessment, and development of targeted, culturally grounded interventions for vulnerable populations.