Suicidal Behavior and Suicide Prevention in Bangladesh

Suicide and suicide prevention remains under-prioritized in Bangladesh. Available evidence suggests that the rate of suicide varies widely in estimates from different sources. Reliable good quality data is a challenge in Bangladesh. Females die more than males in the country. Hanging and poisoning are the leading methods of suicide attempts. Young populations especially those below 30 years of age die more in the country. Mental illness, adverse life events, social isolation, unemployment, sexual abuse, substance misuse, past suicide attempts, marital disharmony, and familial discord are the prominent risk factors. A suicide attempt is a criminal offense in Bangladesh. Along with this, there are high stigma and inadequate suicide literacy. Quality of reporting of suicide attempts in print and online newspapers, movies, and drama is low with a high presence of potentially harmful characteristics and an absolute absence of potentially helpful characteristics. Prevention initiatives have been noted albeit they are inadequate, dispersed, and uncoordinated. Nation-wide study, enduring high-quality data, enhanced research, sufficient funds, good governance, adequate political attention, and coordinated efforts are warranted to formulate a national suicide prevention strategy.