Suicidal Behavior in Indonesia

Suicide has become a major public mental health issue in Indonesia. Despite a relatively lower rate, the number of suicides has increased from year to year. The estimated rate of suicide was 2.4 cases per 100,000 population. Nevertheless, the exact figure remains unknown. Several risk factors have been linked to the increased risk of suicide including depression, anxiety, living in urban areas, male gender, and lower education level. In adolescents, the risk factors include female gender, being involved in a physical fight, experiencing bullying, having anxiety problems, feeling lonely, and substance abuse. On the other hand, a strong Islamic belief and adequate social support are noted as protective factors. Indonesian Muslims believe that suicide is a major sin. Therefore, it is considered shameful and a disgrace to the family. Hanging is the most common method of suicide in Indonesia. The mass media report suicidal behavior freely without considering reporting guidelines. Suicide prevention programs have been initiated, but mostly centralized in urban areas or big cities, leaving the rural areas untouched. Further research on suicidal behavior in Indonesia is warranted to formulate a national suicide prevention strategy successfully.