Jordan

Epidemiology of Suicide

Overall Statistics

• Current Suicide Rate (per 100,000 people): 2.8 (2019 data). (org)
• Trend Analysis:

• • Last 5 Years: Suicide rates in Jordan remain relatively low compared to global averages, but underreporting due to cultural and religious stigma is significant.

Demographic-Specific Insights

1. By Gender:

1. • Male Suicide Rate: Higher than females, consistent with global trends.
   • Female Suicide Rate: Lower, though women are more likely to attempt suicide, often linked to domestic violence and social pressures.

2. By Age Groups:

1. • Adolescents (15–24): Suicide among youth is a growing concern, often linked to academic pressure, unemployment, and lack of mental health support.
   • Elderly (60+): Limited data, but isolation and health challenges may contribute to risks.

3. Rural vs. Urban:

1. • Suicide rates are slightly higher in rural areas due to limited mental health services and social isolation.

4. Special Groups:

1. • Refugees: Suicide risk is elevated among refugees and displaced populations due to trauma, poverty, and inadequate access to mental health services.

Suicide Prevention Innovations

National Strategies and Policies

• Overview: Jordan has integrated mental health care into its public health system and is working with international organizations to address suicide prevention.
• Key Elements:

• • Training healthcare professionals in suicide risk assessment and intervention.
  • Expanding crisis helplines and access to community-based mental health services.
  • Reducing stigma around mental health through public education campaigns.

Specific Initiatives and Campaigns

1. Public Awareness Campaigns:

1. • Example: Awareness programs led by the Ministry of Health aim to promote mental health literacy and reduce stigma.

2. Programs Targeting High-Risk Groups:

1. • Youth Programs: School-based mental health education and workshops on stress management.
   • Refugee Support: Mental health services provided in refugee camps, supported by NGOs and international agencies.

3. Collaborative Efforts:

1. • Partnerships with WHO, UNHCR, and local NGOs to improve mental health infrastructure and outreach.

Innovative Tools and Approaches

• Digital Tools:

• • Telehealth services provide remote access to mental health professionals, particularly in underserved areas.
  • Online resources for mental health education and self-help tools are being introduced.

• Community-Based Interventions:

• • Training for community leaders and teachers to identify and support individuals at risk.
  • Peer-support groups for vulnerable populations, including women and refugees.

Additional Insights

• Cultural Considerations:

• • Suicide is heavily stigmatized in Jordan, influenced by religious and cultural beliefs that discourage open discussions about mental health.
  • Family and community networks are vital for emotional and psychological support.

• Research and Data Gaps:

• • Suicide data among refugees, marginalized groups, and women requires further study.
  • Underreporting of suicide due to stigma remains a challenge for accurate data collection.

• Positive Developments:

• • Increased collaboration with international organizations and the expansion of mental health services reflect progress in addressing suicide prevention.

References

1. Jordan Ministry of Health. (n.d.). Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Services. Retrieved from https://www.moh.gov.jo/
2. World Bank. (2019). Jordan – 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 Jordan. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/
4. National Council for Family Affairs. (n.d.). Family Protection and Mental Health Services. Retrieved from https://www.ncfa.org.jo/
5. UNHCR Jordan. (n.d.). Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Refugees. Retrieved from https://www.unhcr.org/jordan/