Greece

Epidemiology of Suicide

Overall Statistics

• Current Suicide Rate (per 100,000 people): 5.1 (2019 data). (org)
• Trend Analysis:

• • Last 5 Years: Suicide rates in Greece have increased slightly, with a notable rise during the economic crisis. Current stabilization efforts are supported by national and NGO initiatives.

Demographic-Specific Insights

1. By Gender:

1. • Male Suicide Rate: Nearly four 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 is a leading cause of death, often linked to academic pressure, social isolation, and mental health stigma.
   • Elderly (60+): Higher rates are observed in this group, often associated with loneliness, chronic illness, and financial difficulties.

3. Rural vs. Urban:

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

4. Special Groups:

1. • Refugees, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and individuals impacted by the economic crisis face elevated risks due to stigma, discrimination, and financial stress.

Suicide Prevention Innovations

National Strategies and Policies

• Overview: Greece has developed a National Mental Health Plan that includes suicide prevention initiatives aimed at addressing the underlying causes of mental health distress and improving access to care.
• Key Elements:

• • Training healthcare professionals to recognize and manage suicide risks.
  • Expanding crisis helplines and community support services.
  • Reducing stigma around mental health and suicide.

Specific Initiatives and Campaigns

1. Public Awareness Campaigns:

1. • Example: Klimaka’s campaigns focus on breaking the silence around suicide and encouraging individuals to seek help.

2. Programs Targeting High-Risk Groups:

1. • Youth Programs: School-based mental health programs focus on resilience and coping skills.
   • Refugee and Migrant Support: Trauma-informed care programs provide mental health support for refugees and asylum seekers.

3. Collaborative Efforts:

1. • Partnerships with WHO, UNICEF, and local NGOs to enhance mental health services and research.

Innovative Tools and Approaches

• Digital Tools:

• • Online counseling services and helplines are widely available, including chat-based support for younger populations.
  • Apps such as “iFeel” provide mental health resources and self-help tools.

• Community-Based Interventions:

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

Additional Insights

• Cultural Considerations:

• • Stigma surrounding mental health and suicide remains a significant barrier in Greece, particularly in rural areas and traditional communities.
  • Family and community play a crucial role in mental health care, making family-inclusive interventions effective.

• Research and Data Gaps:

• • More comprehensive data on suicide rates among marginalized groups, such as LGBTQIA+ populations and refugees, is needed.

• Positive Developments:

• • The establishment of the 1018 hotline and the integration of suicide prevention into national health policies reflect progress in addressing this issue.

References

1. (n.d.). Suicide Prevention Services and Support in Greece. Retrieved from https://www.klimaka.org.gr/
2. World Bank. (2019). Greece – Suicide Mortality Rate (per 100,000 Population). Retrieved from https://data.worldbank.org/
3. Ministry of Health, Greece. (n.d.). National Mental Health Plan Overview. Retrieved from https://www.moh.gov.gr/
4. UNICEF Greece. (n.d.). Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Youth. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/greece/
5. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Greece. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/