Suicidal Behaviour in Oman: Emerging Trends and Challenges

Suicide is a significant global public health concern and many countries are observing increasing trends. Oman, an Arabian Gulf country with a youth-dominated population, is no exception in this regard. This review provides an overview of the epidemiology of suicidal ideation, self-harm, and death by suicide in Oman, discussed within the context of risk factors and stigma-related issues. Some groups are at higher risk in Oman: young generation, women, and expatriates. The legal status of suicide in Oman includes a combination of both judicial and medical models. Suicide literacy and stigma-related issues are influenced by sociocultural and religious teachings. However, the lack of robust national statistics and surveillance systems on suicide, as well as the scarcity of mental health services for suicide ideation and behaviour, are significant sources of attrition which, in turn, impede the development of effective suicide prevention strategies. In conclusion, a multifaceted approach is necessary that takes into account the unique sociocultural context of Oman while addressing risk factors and stigma-related issues. More research is imperative to come to grips with the rising trends of poor mental health outcomes, self-harm, and suicide in Oman, as well as to lay the groundwork for dynamic approaches to improve mental health services.