List of countries by suicide rate

List of countries by suicide rate provides an overview of the reported national suicide rates as per the data collected by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other sources. Suicide, the act of intentionally causing one's own death, is a serious public health issue globally. The rates are typically expressed per 100,000 individuals per year and are adjusted to account for age differences within countries.

Overview

Suicide rates vary significantly between countries and over time. Factors influencing these rates include socioeconomic conditions, access to mental health care, cultural attitudes towards suicide, and methods available for suicide. High-income countries tend to have higher reported suicide rates, although underreporting in lower-income countries is a significant issue. The WHO and other organizations aim to improve reporting and intervention strategies worldwide to reduce suicide rates.

Global Statistics

According to the latest WHO data, the countries with the highest suicide rates often include those in Eastern Europe and East Asia, with countries like Lithuania, Russia, and South Korea frequently appearing at the top of the list. Conversely, countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and some Caribbean nations report some of the lowest rates, though the accuracy of reporting varies.

Prevention and Control

Efforts to reduce suicide rates focus on improving mental health care access, reducing stigma associated with seeking help for mental health issues, and controlling access to common means of suicide. National strategies often include public awareness campaigns, education for healthcare professionals, and restrictions on the sale of substances and items commonly used in suicides.

Controversies and Challenges

Comparing suicide rates across countries can be challenging due to differences in reporting standards, religious or cultural stigma against suicide, and the legal framework surrounding suicide and its reporting. Some countries may underreport suicides due to these factors, making it difficult to accurately assess and compare the true rates of suicide globally.

See Also

• Mental health
• Suicide prevention
• World Health Organization

External Links

• [World Health Organization - Suicide data] (https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/suicide-data)

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