Suicide can be prevented
In Bhutan, suicide deaths ranks among the top six leading causes of deaths after alcoholic liver disease, other circulatory diseases, cancers, respiratory diseases, and transport deaths. Suicide deaths outnumber the combined deaths due to TB, malaria and HIV.
In a five year review of suicide cases from 2009 -2013 in Bhutan, a total of 361 suicide deaths were documented by the Royal Bhutan Police. This is an average of 73 suicide cases in a year or six suicide deaths in a month. The completed suicide rate in Bhutan is 10 per 100 000 population slightly lower than the global rate of 11.4 per 100 000 population per year.
The proportion of suicide deaths among all deaths is 4.5% higher than the corresponding proportion of 1.4% in the low middle income countries. Suicide occurs among the most productive age groups; 87% of deaths occurred within the age group of 15-40 years. Bhutan has remained steady and rather increased particularly in 2012 and 2013.
In Bhutan, for every 4.5 suicide deaths there is one suicide attempted case recorded, indicating gross under reporting of the attempted cases. The Health Management Information System (HMIS) of the Ministry of Health has been collecting data on “intentional self harm” since 2010. Cases of intentional self harm reported in the health facilities ranged from 502-682 cases while only 3-5 deaths due to intentional self harm which are likely suicide deaths were recorded in health fa- cilities during 2009-2013.
Suicide is a complex human behavior, with no single cause. Psychological, social and cultural factors interact to lead an individual to a suicidal behavior. Links between mental illness and suicide are well established, but there are combinations of other factors that affect an individual’s life such as drug or alcohol abuse, social isolation, poor family and personal relationships, lack of social supports and difficult economic conditions that increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Suicide is preventable to a large extent through collaborated efforts of multiple sectors involving both government and non-government sectors. Comprehensive, synergistic approaches are required to address an issue as complex as suicide; no single approach or organization can prevent suicide on its own. In a highly spiritual Bhutanese society, religion and spirituality may engender social cohesion and supportive community. Buddhism also recognizes suicide risk factors such as alcohol and drug use as a root of misdeeds.
Further past suicide attempters must be given enough advocacies to lead a healthy life. It is the responsibility of the society, individuals and all responsible citizens to help and prevent this. The Lhengye Zhungtshog has already directed the Taskforce members through the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs to develop Suicide Prevention Plan and hopefully the action plan will be finalized and put in place.