Your ultimate guide to exploring and writing about Turkey
Suicide in Turkey is a complex and sensitive public health issue, influenced by a mix of socio-cultural, economic, and psychological factors. Here is a detailed, objective overview based on available data and research:
Rate: Turkey's suicide rate is lower than the global and European averages. According to WHO data, it is around 4-5 per 100,000 people, compared to a global average of ~9 per 100,000. It is consistently one of the lowest rates among OECD countries.
Gender Disparity: As in most of the world, the rate is significantly higher among men (roughly 3-4 times higher than women). However, suicide attempts are more frequent among women.
Age: The highest rates are among the elderly (75+) and young adults (15-29). Suicide is a leading cause of death for young people in Turkey.
Regional Variation: Rates are typically highest in Eastern and Central Anatolia (e.g., provinces like Kars, Iğdır, Aksaray, Niğde) and lowest in the coastal regions (Mediterranean, Aegean, Black Sea). This is often linked to socioeconomic factors.
Trends: The overall rate has shown some fluctuation but no dramatic sustained increase in recent decades. Some studies note increases in specific demographics, such as young people, during periods of economic stress.
The causes are multifaceted and often interrelated:
Mental Health Disorders: Depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses are primary underlying factors. Stigma surrounding mental health prevents many from seeking help.
Economic Hardship & Unemployment: Financial strain, job loss, and debt are major triggers, particularly for men who are culturally viewed as primary providers.
Family & Relationship Conflicts: This is a frequently cited reason, especially in police and health reports, involving issues like honor, domestic violence, marital discord, and family pressure.
Social and Cultural Pressures: In conservative communities, pressures related to honor ("namus"), reputation, forced marriages, and family disputes can be severe stressors. For LGBTQ+ individuals, societal rejection and lack of legal protections are significant risk factors.
Chronic Illness & Pain: Especially among the elderly.
Isolation & Urbanization: Migration from rural areas to large cities can lead to loneliness and loss of traditional social support networks.
Access to Means: In rural areas, pesticide ingestion is a common and highly lethal method. In urban settings, hanging and jumping from heights are more common.
Islam: Suicide is strictly forbidden (haram) in Islam, the religion of the vast majority. This religious prohibition is a strong protective factor for many and contributes to societal stigma. It can also lead to underreporting and immense shame for affected families.
Stigma: The combination of religious prohibition and social stigma means suicide is often a taboo subject. This silence can hinder prevention efforts, grief support, and open discussion about mental health.
Reporting & Media: Media reporting on suicide is strictly regulated by law (via the Turkish Press Council's directives and the Ministry of Health guidelines) to prevent "copycat" incidents. Reports should not sensationalize, detail methods, or glorify the act.
Government & Health Services:
The Ministry of Health has a National Mental Health Action Plan that includes suicide prevention strategies.
Psychiatric services and crisis helplines exist but are often under-resourced, especially outside major cities.
Crisis Hotlines: The most prominent is:
182 - Social Services Hotline: Provides psychosocial support and directs callers to local services.
112 - Emergency Medical Services: For immediate crises.
There are also some NGO-run hotlines, but they are limited in number and scope compared to many Western countries.
NGOs & Advocacy: Organizations like the Turkish Association for Mental Health and Beyaz Ay work on awareness, stigma reduction, and support. Their reach is growing but still faces cultural barriers.
Gatekeeper Training: Efforts are being made to train professionals (teachers, doctors, police, religious leaders) in identifying at-risk individuals.
Stigma: The biggest barrier to both seeking help and providing effective community support.
Mental Health Infrastructure: Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and crisis centers is insufficient, with a high patient-to-specialist ratio.
Fragmented Data: While the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) publishes data, researchers note challenges in consistency and underreporting.
Economic Volatility: Recessions and high inflation can directly impact suicide risk, especially among vulnerable populations.
Take it Seriously: If someone expresses suicidal thoughts, do not dismiss it.
Listen Without Judgment: Offer a compassionate, non-judgmental ear.
Encourage Professional Help: Suggest contacting a doctor, psychiatrist, or the 182 hotline. In immediate danger, call 112 (ambulance) or 155 (police).
Avoid Simplistic Religious Arguments: While faith can be a comfort, simply saying "suicide is a sin" to a depressed person is not helpful and may increase guilt.
Support the Family: Families often carry great shame; offering practical and emotional support is crucial.
In summary, suicide in Turkey presents a paradox of statistically lower rates than many countries, but set within a context of high stigma, significant regional disparities, and clear links to socioeconomic stress. Effective prevention requires culturally sensitive approaches that address mental health stigma, improve economic security, and strengthen community support networks while respecting the complex religious and social fabric of the country.