Suicide is a tragic and complex phenomenon that affects individuals and communities worldwide. Mental health negligence, particularly concerning men, has become a pressing concern. Despite increasing awareness of mental health issues, men often face unique challenges that make them more vulnerable to suicide. This article delves into the various factors contributing to this troubling trend.

Global and Local Statistics of Suicide: Male vs Female

Females, especially those under 25, exhibit higher rates of non-fatal suicidal behaviour and suicidal ideation, and attempt suicide more frequently. But, in reality, males have a significantly higher rate of completing suicide than females. This phenomenon is commonly known as the gender paradox in suicide.

Around the world, more men than women die by suicide. According to Wikipedia, in 2008 and 2015, the number of male suicides was about 1.8 to 1.7 times higher than female suicides globally. In Western countries, men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide compared to women. In 2015,  around two-thirds of global suicide deaths (representing about 1.5% of total deaths) were among men.

Data from The National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) in the USA for 2016 revealed that for every female suicide, there were about 3.5 male suicides. However, in China, the rates of suicide between men and women were almost the same. The male vs female suicide ratio is 9.1:10.3.

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In 2019, the rate of suicide deaths among males was over 3.5 times higher than that among females. By 2021, this disproportionate rate increased to over 3.9 times higher. 

According to the CDC, in the USA, men experienced a suicide rate four times higher than that of women in 2021-2022. 

In Bangladesh, the scenario is quite the same – more men than women commit suicide here. In 2017, there were over 11,000 recorded suicides. The average age for male suicide victims was about 28.86 years, while for females, it was about 25.31 years old.

In 2019, 3.70 people took their own lives out of every 100,000 people in Bangladesh. The male suicide rate was 5.70 while the number is 1.70 for females. Also, the police records indicate a rising trend in suicides over the years. At the same time, psychologists estimate that around 11,000 people end their lives annually in Bangladesh.

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Reasons behind Higher Suicide Rate in Men

Societal Expectations and Gender Norms 

Men are socialised to conform to traditional masculine norms that value stoicism and emotional suppression. This societal expectation inhibits many men from seeking help for mental health issues, fearing judgement or appearing weak. As a result, they often struggle in silence, leading to untreated mental illness and higher suicide rates. 

Lack of Emotional Support 

Societal norms often discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking emotional support. It leads to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Without adequate avenues for expressing their feelings, men may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms or internalise their struggles, increasing the risk of suicide.

Financial and Employment Stress 

Economic instability and joblessness disproportionately impact men. And it heightens their stress levels and sense of inadequacy. The expectation to provide for oneself and loved ones can foster feelings of failure and despair, worsening mental health challenges among men.

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Relationship Problems 

Difficulties in personal relationships, such as marital discord or separation, can significantly impact men's mental well-being. The breakdown of a relationship may lead to feelings of rejection or failure which intensifies existing mental health struggles and often increases the risk of suicide.

Mental Health Stigma 

The stigma attached to mental health issues can discourage men from seeking help or sharing their challenges openly. Fear of being viewed as weak or incapable may discourage men from seeking support services and it leaves them to battle their issues in isolation. 

Access to Means of Suicide 

Men are inclined to employ more lethal methods, like firearms or hanging when attempting suicide. This ease of access to such means heightens the risk of a fatal outcome. And it thereby amplifies the higher suicide rates prevalent among men. 

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Social isolation and Communication

Men may encounter greater difficulty in establishing strong social connections, which serve as a protective measure against suicide. In contrast, women are often more open about mental health concerns and engage in conversations about their emotions rather than internalising them. 

Surveys support this trend, revealing that up to 40% of men have never discussed their mental health with anyone, despite experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, stress, or depression in over three-quarters of cases. 

Suicide Prevention Efforts for Boys, Youths and Older Men

Awareness Campaigns

Promoting tailored awareness campaigns for men aims to destigmatize mental health, encourage help-seeking, and increase access to care. Emphasising therapy as a sign of strength, these efforts raise awareness of suicide prevention through media campaigns and school-based educational programmes, highlighting warning signs and available resources.

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Mental Health Education

Mental health education can be a helpful way to prevent suicide. Implementing educational programmes for men enhances mental health understanding, covering symptom recognition and accessing support. These initiatives teach coping skills and problem-solving techniques to aid in navigating challenging circumstances. 

Workplace Initiatives

It is necessary to implement workplace initiatives for mental well-being. It includes employee assistance programmes and manager training to recognise signs of distress. These efforts foster supportive environments where employees feel valued and supported in managing their mental health. 

Social Connection 

It would be helpful to encourage strong social connections and foster community support systems, including men's group programmes and activities that promote friendship-building. These initiatives provide vital avenues for men to connect, share experiences, and receive support during challenging times.

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Crisis Intervention 

It is vital to train individuals, including teachers, law enforcement, and community members, to identify warning signs and respond effectively during crises. This includes devising crisis plans and guiding individuals towards appropriate support. Tailored interventions for men, such as therapy groups addressing masculinity and emotional expression, are also essential.

Effective Treatment 

Developing and implementing evidence-based treatments for suicide prevention and mental health conditions is crucial. This includes research-backed interventions aimed at reducing suicidal behaviour and addressing underlying mental health issues to ensure effective support for those at risk.

Suicide Prevention Hotlines

It is important to set up suicide prevention hotlines, operated by trained professionals knowledgeable about suicidal people's distinct challenges. Ensuring well-funded and readily accessible crisis hotlines operate around the clock.

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For instance, Kaan Pete Roi (hotline number 09612-119911) serves as the country's sole emotional support and suicide prevention helpline, manned by trained volunteers providing immediate assistance.

Postvention Support 

Providing support to those bereaved by suicide is essential to help them navigate the aftermath. Offering counselling, support groups, and resources according to their needs assists in coping with grief, processing emotions, and finding healing after such a devastating loss.

Verdict 

A complex interplay of societal, cultural, and individual factors influences the high suicide rates among men. By addressing the root causes of male suicide and implementing targeted prevention strategies, we can work towards creating a future where mental health support is readily available and stigma-free.

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