Guyana

Epidemiology of Suicide

Overall Statistics

• Current Suicide Rate (per 100,000 people): 40.3 (2019 data). (org)
• Trend Analysis:

• • Last 5 Years: Suicide rates in Guyana are among the highest globally, but recent prevention efforts have shown slight improvements.

Demographic-Specific Insights

1. By Gender:

1. • Male Suicide Rate: Four times higher than females, consistent with global trends.
   • 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 in this group, often linked to academic pressures, family conflicts, and lack of mental health support.
   • Elderly (60+): Higher suicide rates are linked to social isolation, chronic illnesses, and economic challenges.

3. Rural vs. Urban:

1. • Suicide rates are significantly higher in rural areas due to isolation, economic hardship, and limited access to mental health services.

4. Special Groups:

1. • Indigenous populations in remote regions face elevated risks due to marginalization, poor access to healthcare, and socio-economic challenges.

Suicide Prevention Innovations

National Strategies and Policies

• Overview: Guyana launched its National Mental Health Action Plan, which includes suicide prevention as a critical focus area, addressing both rural and urban populations.
• Key Elements:

• • Integration of mental health services into primary healthcare.
  • Crisis hotline and outreach services for high-risk populations.
  • Awareness campaigns to reduce stigma around mental health and suicide.

Specific Initiatives and Campaigns

1. Public Awareness Campaigns:

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

2. Programs Targeting High-Risk Groups:

1. • Youth Programs: School-based initiatives promote emotional resilience and coping strategies.
   • Indigenous Outreach: Community-based interventions focus on culturally sensitive mental health support.

3. Collaborative Efforts:

1. • Partnerships with WHO, PAHO, and local NGOs to strengthen suicide prevention infrastructure and provide training.

Innovative Tools and Approaches

• Community-Based Interventions:

• • Training for healthcare providers, teachers, and community leaders to recognize and address suicide risks.
  • Peer support networks are being established in underserved regions.

• Digital Tools:

• • Helplines and text services provide accessible crisis support, especially for younger populations.

Additional Insights

• Cultural Considerations:

• • Mental health stigma is prevalent in Guyana, particularly in rural areas, where cultural beliefs may discourage help-seeking behavior.
  • Family and community networks are essential components of mental health interventions.

• Research and Data Gaps:

• • Limited comprehensive data on suicide rates among LGBTQIA+ individuals, refugees, and Indigenous populations.

• Positive Developments:

• • The establishment of national hotlines and the integration of mental health into primary care services reflect progress in addressing the country’s high suicide rates.

References

1. Ministry of Public Health, Guyana. (n.d.). National Mental Health Action Plan Overview. Retrieved from https://health.gov.gy
2. World Bank. (2019). Guyana – Suicide Mortality Rate (per 100,000 Population). Retrieved from https://data.worldbank.org/
3. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Guyana. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/
4. Pan American Health Organization. (n.d.). Mental Health Initiatives in the Caribbean. Retrieved from https://www.paho.org/
5. UNICEF Guyana. (n.d.). Youth Mental Health and Psychosocial Support. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/guyana/