Monaco

Epidemiology of Suicide

Overall Statistics

• Current Suicide Rate (per 100,000 people): 5.7 (2019 data). (worldbank.org)
• Trend Analysis:
  • Last 5 Years: Suicide rates in Monaco have remained low, likely due to high-quality healthcare, strong social networks, and a well-funded mental health system.

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 seek mental health services.

2. By Age Groups:

1. • Adolescents (15–24): Suicide risk among youth is low but still linked to academic stress and social pressure.
   • Elderly (60+): Mental health concerns among older adults are primarily linked to loneliness and health-related issues.

3. Rural vs. Urban:

1. • Monaco is a highly urbanized city-state with equal access to mental health services across all areas.

4. Special Groups:

1. • Expatriates and High-Net-Worth Individuals: The unique pressures of wealth management, social expectations, and work stress contribute to mental health challenges.
   • LGBTQIA+ Individuals: Despite Monaco’s progressive healthcare policies, some discrimination-related stress persists.

Suicide Prevention Innovations

National Strategies and Policies

• Overview: Monaco has integrated suicide prevention into its National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy, focusing on early intervention and accessible mental healthcare.
• Key Elements:
  • Strengthening psychological services in hospitals and clinics.
  • Mental health education and awareness campaigns.
  • Crisis intervention training for healthcare providers and educators.

Specific Initiatives and Campaigns

1. Public Awareness Campaigns:

1. • Example: “Monaco Pour la Vie” (“Monaco for Life”) promotes mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

2. Programs Targeting High-Risk Groups:

1. • Youth Mental Health Support: School-based mental health programs that promote emotional well-being.
   • Elderly Suicide Prevention Initiatives: Support services focused on combating loneliness and depression in seniors.

3. Collaborative Efforts:

1. • Monaco works with WHO, European Union mental health organizations, and local NGOs to advance suicide prevention strategies.

Innovative Tools and Approaches

• Digital Tools:

• • Online therapy platforms provide anonymous counseling services.
  • AI-powered mental health monitoring tools used in healthcare facilities.

• Community-Based Interventions:

• • Suicide prevention training for teachers, police, and emergency responders.
  • Peer-support networks providing psychological first aid.

Additional Insights

• Cultural Considerations:

• • Monaco has a strong mental health infrastructure, but stigma still exists regarding discussing mental health issues.
  • The pressures of wealth, high societal expectations, and work stress contribute to unique mental health challenges.

• Research and Data Gaps:

• • More research is needed on suicide risk among expatriates and high-net-worth individuals.
  • Data on LGBTQIA+ mental health and suicide risk in Monaco remains limited.

• Positive Developments:

• • Monaco is expanding its mental health services, making psychological care more accessible.
  • Suicide prevention initiatives are integrated into broader public health strategies.

References

1. Monaco Ministry of Health and Social Affairs. (n.d.). National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.gouv.mc/Action-Gouvernementale/La-Sante
2. World Bank. (2019). Monaco – 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 Monaco. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/
4. Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace (CHPG). (n.d.). Crisis Support and Mental Health Services in Monaco. Retrieved from https://www.chpg.mc/
5. Fight Aids Monaco. (n.d.). LGBTQIA+ Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Services. Retrieved from https://www.fightaidsmonaco.com/