Bhutan

Epidemiology of Suicide

Overall Statistics

• Current Suicide Rate (per 100,000 people): 11.4 (2019 data). (tradingeconomics.com)
• Trend Analysis:

• • Last 5 Years: The suicide rate in Bhutan has shown fluctuations, with a slight increase observed in recent years.

Demographic-Specific Insights

1. By Gender:

1. • Male Suicide Rate: Higher compared to females.
   • Female Suicide Rate: Lower than males but still significant in rural communities.
   • Notable Trends: Male suicides are predominantly associated with unemployment and substance abuse, while female suicides are linked to domestic violence and familial disputes. (bhutantimes.bt)

2. By Age Groups:

1. • Youth (15-29): Suicide is the leading cause of death among youth in Bhutan.
   • Middle-Aged (30-49): Significant rates, often linked to economic stress and societal pressures.

3. Rural vs. Urban:

1. • Suicide rates are higher in rural areas due to limited access to mental health services and higher levels of isolation.

Suicide Prevention Innovations

National Strategies and Policies

• Overview: Bhutan has prioritized mental health and suicide prevention as part of its Gross National Happiness (GNH) framework.
• Key Elements:

• • Community-Based Programs: Focused on reducing stigma, raising awareness, and improving mental health literacy.
  • Government Policies: The National Suicide Prevention Action Plan (NSPAP) was implemented in 2015 to address suicide prevention through a holistic approach. (health.gov.bt)

Specific Initiatives and Campaigns

1. Public Awareness Campaigns:

1. • Example: Annual mental health awareness campaigns, including events organized around World Suicide Prevention Day, to reduce stigma and promote available services.

2. Programs Targeting High-Risk Groups:

1. • Youth and Adolescents: School-based mental health programs are designed to educate students about coping strategies and seeking help.

3. Collaborative Efforts:

1. • Partnerships between the Ministry of Health, Bhutan YDF, and international organizations such as UNICEF to strengthen mental health services.

Innovative Tools and Approaches

• Digital Tools:

• • Example: Mobile applications and online resources have been developed to provide easy access to mental health information and services.

• Community-Based Interventions:

• • Training of local leaders and healthcare workers to recognize and address mental health issues in their communities.

Additional Insights

• Cultural Considerations:

• • Suicide and mental health issues are often stigmatized in Bhutan, particularly in rural areas. Efforts to integrate mental health services into traditional community structures have shown promise.

• Research and Data Gaps:

• • Detailed demographic data on suicide is still limited, and further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of current interventions.

• Positive Developments:

• • The implementation of the National Suicide Prevention Action Plan and the active involvement of community organizations demonstrate Bhutan’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges.

References

1. Bhutan Youth Development Fund. (n.d.). Mental Health Services. Retrieved from https://www.bhutanyouth.org/
2. Trading Economics. (2019). Bhutan – Suicide Mortality Rate (per 100,000 Population). Retrieved from https://tradingeconomics.com/bhutan/suicide-mortality-rate-per-100000-population-wb-data.html
3. Ministry of Health, Bhutan. (2015). National Suicide Prevention Action Plan. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.bt/
4. Bhutan Times. (n.d.). Mental Health and Suicide in Bhutan. Retrieved from https://bhutantimes.bt/