Suicidal Behavior in Iraq

Iraq is a developing Arab Muslim country with a remote history of civilization, natural resources, and sub-cultural diversities. It endured conflicts and foreign invasions from ancient times till recent decades. The cultural and religious values of the vast majority have influenced many societal and health issues like suicide, which is a serious public health problem with mounting rates worldwide. The estimated suicide rate in Iraq is 1.7/100000, which is lower than in Western countries. The actual prevalence is not known due to underreporting and social stigma. The predominance of younger age groups and the use of violent methods such as self-burn or gunshot indicate increased rates and intensity of suicide behavior more than expected. Females represented more suicidal ideas and attempts due to higher rates of depression, environmental stress, and family conflicts. The ongoing acts of violence that resulted from the US-led invasion in March 2003 contributed to suicide behavior associated with increased mental disorders in general as one of the consequences of war atrocities. There is a significant data gap due to an underdeveloped surveillance system and a shortage of related research. Improving mental health services and enhancing early detection of risk group cases will help suicide prevention.