Suicide in Bhutan

Bhutan is the 25th largest in the world and the 7th largest in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of suicide ^[1] . Suicide is the second leading cause of death in the country, second only to deaths in road accidents ^[2] . These indicators are shocking for the country, in the center of the state policy of which is “ Gross national happiness ” ^[3] .

In 2011, the suicide rate in the country was 16.25 people per 100,000 population, or 2.12% of the total number of deaths ^[4] . In 2012 and 2013, the number of suicides increased by 50% ^[2] . According to official data, the largest number of suicides was in 2001, when 58 people committed suicide, and the smallest number - in 2006, when 34 people committed suicide ^[3] .

One of the major factors leading to suicide is depression ^[2] . Unemployment, a high percentage of single-parent families, domestic violence and excessive drinking are also contributing to an increase in the number of suicides ^[3] . In some villages, suicide has become almost the norm ^[3] . A high suicide rate is observed among Bhutanese refugees , most of whom are Nepalese ^[5] . For most Bhutanese, the discussion of suicide itself and how to prevent it is a social taboo ^[6] .

In accordance with Bhutanese law, the act of committing suicide is not illegal, however, incitement to suicide is considered a crime ^[3] . The police provide counseling services to those who tried to end their lives, and asked them or their families to give a written commitment that this would not happen again ^[3] .