Suicidal Behavior in Azerbaijan

Suicide is a multifaceted phenomenon involving biological, genetic, psychological, social, cultural, and environmental risk factors. Suicide occurs in all parts of the world; however, the prevalence of suicidal behavior varies significantly by region. Geographical disparities in the incidence of suicidal behavior can be attributed to several reasons, including the accuracy of suicide statistics and cultural and religious aspects. Suicide rates in Azerbaijan are not extremely high in comparison to other countries with similar geopolitical and socioeconomic backgrounds. The scarcity of scientific research regarding suicide in Azerbaijan does not allow for accurate identification of risk factors for suicide. Cultural constructs such as values and gender role expectations have an impact on the degree of suicide risk within the Azerbaijani population. In this chapter, we discuss various concepts such as stigma surrounding mental health and suicidality in general, self-construal, the construct of “culture of honor,” and their role in suicide risk. We believe that scientific findings, the development of psychometric instruments for risk assessment, and appropriate training for mental health professionals can improve the capacity for identifying at-risk populations, reduce the stigma associated with mental health, and eventually contribute to a better approach to suicide prevention and management in Azerbaijan.