Finland

Epidemiology of Suicide

Overall Statistics

• Current Suicide Rate (per 100,000 people): 13.4 (2019 data). (org)
• Trend Analysis:

• • Last 5 Years: Finland has achieved a steady decline in suicide rates due to the successful implementation of national strategies and awareness campaigns.

Demographic-Specific Insights

1. By Gender:

1. • Male Suicide Rate: Three times higher than females.
   • Female Suicide Rate: Lower, but rates of suicide attempts are higher among women.

2. By Age Groups:

1. • Adolescents (15–24): Suicide remains a leading cause of death, with pressures from school, social media, and mental health challenges being contributing factors.
   • Elderly (60+): Suicide rates remain significant, often due to loneliness, chronic illness, and financial challenges.

3. Rural vs. Urban:

1. • Higher suicide rates in rural areas due to social isolation, limited access to mental health services, and economic stress.

4. Special Groups:

1. • LGBTQIA+ individuals and Indigenous Sámi populations experience elevated suicide risks due to discrimination, cultural marginalization, and mental health stigma.

Suicide Prevention Innovations

National Strategies and Policies

• Overview: Finland has implemented the National Suicide Prevention Program (2019–2023), which focuses on reducing suicides by integrating prevention efforts across healthcare, education, and community systems.
• Key Elements:

• • Education and training for healthcare providers on suicide prevention.
  • Improved crisis support and access to mental health services.
  • Restricting access to means of suicide, such as firearms and medications.

Specific Initiatives and Campaigns

1. Public Awareness Campaigns:

1. • Example: “It’s Okay to Talk” encourages open discussions about mental health and reduces stigma.

2. Programs Targeting High-Risk Groups:

1. • Youth Programs: School-based mental health education teaches coping skills and emotional regulation.
   • Sámi Support Services: Tailored interventions address cultural and mental health challenges faced by Sámi communities.

3. Collaborative Efforts:

1. • Partnerships between the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, NGOs like Mieli, and international organizations to improve mental health services and community outreach.

Innovative Tools and Approaches

• Digital Tools:

• • Online platforms like “Sekasin Chat” provide anonymous mental health support, especially for youth.
  • Apps like “MentalHub” offer self-help tools and resources.

• Community-Based Interventions:

• • Suicide prevention training for educators, community leaders, and healthcare professionals.

Additional Insights

• Cultural Considerations:

• • Finland’s open approach to mental health discussions has significantly reduced stigma.
  • Family and peer networks are actively involved in mental health interventions.

• Research and Data Gaps:

• • Suicide data among marginalized groups like refugees and LGBTQIA+ individuals requires more comprehensive research.

• Positive Developments:

• • The success of the National Suicide Prevention Program, coupled with digital innovations like Sekasin Chat, highlights Finland’s leading role in suicide prevention.

References

1. Mieli Mental Health Finland. (n.d.). Crisis Helpline and Suicide Prevention Services. Retrieved from https://www.mieli.fi/
2. World Bank. (2019). Finland – Suicide Mortality Rate (per 100,000 Population). Retrieved from https://data.worldbank.org/
3. Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, Finland. (2019). National Suicide Prevention Program (2019–2023). Retrieved from https://stm.fi/
4. Sekasin Chat. (n.d.). Online Mental Health Support for Youth. Retrieved from https://sekasin.fi/
5. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Finland. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/