What is the current standing of Lithuania's suicide rate within the European Union and OECD as of 2021?

As of 2021, Lithuania's suicide rate remained the highest in the European Union and the second highest in the OECD, following only South Korea. This indicates a persistent challenge with suicide rates in the country compared to many other developed nations.

What was the recorded suicide rate per 100,000 individuals in Lithuania in the year 2022?

In 2022, Lithuania's suicide rate was recorded at 18.6 suicides per 100,000 persons. This figure reflects a continued downward trend from previous years but still places it among the highest rates globally.

What trajectory has Lithuania's suicide rate followed since its peak in 1995?

Since reaching its peak in 1995, Lithuania's suicide rate has been in a constant state of decrease. While this trend is positive, the rate still remains significantly high compared to many other countries.

Following the fall of communism, what societal and economic shifts were initially identified as primary drivers of Lithuania's elevated suicide rates?

Following the fall of communism in the 1990s, Lithuania experienced dramatic social and economic changes. Earlier studies attributed the high suicide rate to the effects of these transformations, harsh economic conditions, declining living standards, widespread alcoholism, and a lack of adequate psychological and psychiatric services.

Beyond the initial post-communist transition factors, what other complex causes for Lithuania's high suicide rate have been suggested by recent studies?

More recent studies suggest that the causes of Lithuania's high suicide rate are more complex than initially thought, pointing to a combination of psychological and economic factors, societal issues like lack of tolerance and bullying, and potentially other underlying issues.

According to Onutė Davidonienė, director of the State Mental Health Center, what specific factors contribute to Lithuania's high suicide rate?

Onutė Davidonienė identified several contributing factors, including economic recessions, alcoholism, a lack of tolerance within society, and bullying. These elements highlight the multifaceted nature of the problem.

What relationship has been observed in Lithuania between an individual's educational attainment, their place of residence, and their risk of suicide?

Studies have noted that the suicide rate is significantly higher among less educated populations and particularly among those residing in rural areas. This suggests that socioeconomic factors and geographic location play a role in suicide risk.

Which specific municipalities in Lithuania reported exceptionally high suicide rates in 2017, and how did they compare to the national average?

In 2017, Kupiškis district municipality reported a suicide rate exceeding 70 per 100,000 people, more than double the national average. Varėna district municipality and Kalvarija Municipality also had particularly high rates, around 67 per 100,000.

Which municipalities in Lithuania showed the lowest suicide rates in 2017?

Palanga City Municipality had the lowest suicide rates in 2017, with fewer than 15 per 100,000 people. Vilnius City Municipality and Plungė district municipality followed with rates of approximately 15 per 100,000.

What notable gender disparity is evident in suicide rates within Lithuania?

There is a striking difference in suicide rates between males and females in Lithuania, with men having a considerably higher rate than women. This pattern is observed across many countries but is particularly pronounced in Lithuania.

What societal norms have been proposed as potential contributors to higher suicidal behaviors among men in Lithuania?

Research suggests that traditional masculinity norms, which are often associated with excessive drinking and a stigma against seeking psychological help, may contribute to the higher rates of suicidal behavior observed in men.

What did a 2020 study by Comunale find regarding the primary factors linked to suicides in Lithuania?

A 2020 statistical-econometrical study by Comunale identified GDP growth, demographics, alcohol consumption, psychological factors, and weather as the main factors potentially linked to suicides in Lithuania.

How did Comunale's study characterize the Lithuanian population in terms of social interaction compared to other EU countries?

Comunale's study noted that Lithuania appears to have one of the most introverted populations among EU countries, exhibiting a significantly higher degree of introversion than Latvia and Estonia.

What did a 2017 report highlight about the suicide rate among prisoners in Lithuania?

A 2017 report indicated that the suicide rate among prisoners and arrested individuals in Lithuania is several times higher than the country's average suicide rate. This suggests a heightened risk within the correctional system.

What systemic issues in suicide prevention were identified in Lithuania by a 2017 report?

The same 2017 report highlighted the insufficient availability of psychological services and a general lack of comprehensive suicide prevention measures in many municipalities across Lithuania.

What significant mental health policy did the Lithuanian parliament approve in 2007?

In 2007, the Lithuanian parliament approved the National Mental Health Strategy, which was based on the World Health Organization's (WHO) Mental Health Declaration for Europe 2005. This marked a formal commitment to improving mental health services.

What specific plan was adopted by Lithuania to address suicide prevention between 2016 and 2020?

Lithuania adopted the Suicide Prevention Action Plan for the period of 2016-2020. This plan aimed to implement targeted strategies and interventions to reduce suicide rates.

When was the Suicide Prevention Bureau established in Lithuania, and what was its organizational placement?

The Suicide Prevention Bureau was established in 2015 under the State Mental Health Centre. Its creation was a step towards centralizing and coordinating suicide prevention efforts.

What assessment did the National Audit Office of Lithuania provide in 2017 concerning the effectiveness and comprehensiveness of the nation's suicide prevention system?

In 2017, the National Audit Office of Lithuania concluded that a comprehensive system to provide help for individuals at risk of suicide was still lacking. This indicated a gap between policy intentions and practical implementation.

What was the suicide rate for both sexes in Lithuania in 1970 and in 2022, according to the chart data?

According to the chart data, the suicide rate for both sexes in Lithuania was 25.1 per 100,000 in 1970 and decreased to 18.6 per 100,000 in 2022. This shows a significant reduction over more than five decades.

What was the peak year for the overall suicide rate in Lithuania as depicted in the provided chart?

The provided chart data indicates that the peak year for the overall suicide rate in Lithuania was 1995, with a rate of 45.6 per 100,000 people. This marked the highest point in the observed period.

How did the male suicide rate in Lithuania compare between 2000 and 2022?

The male suicide rate in Lithuania was 80.4 per 100,000 in 2000 and decreased to 32.2 per 100,000 in 2022. This shows a significant reduction over two decades, indicating a positive trend for male suicide rates.

How did the female suicide rate in Lithuania compare between 2000 and 2022?

The female suicide rate in Lithuania was 16.9 per 100,000 in 2000 and decreased to 6.7 per 100,000 in 2022. This also shows a notable reduction, reflecting a downward trend for female suicide rates over the same period.

What was the total suicide rate in Lithuania in 2019 and 2022, based on the table data?

According to the table, the total suicide rate in Lithuania was 20.2 per 100,000 in 2019 and 18.6 per 100,000 in 2022. This shows a decrease in the overall rate over these years.

In 2022, which age group accounted for the largest number of male suicides in Lithuania?

In 2022, the age group of 60-74 years had the highest number of male suicides in Lithuania, with 125 recorded cases. This demographic group experienced the most suicides among males in that year.

In 2022, which age group accounted for the largest number of female suicides in Lithuania?

In 2022, the age group of 45-59 years had the largest number of female suicides in Lithuania, with 26 recorded cases, closely followed by the 75+ age group also with 26 cases. These groups represented the highest numbers for female suicides.

What was the total number of suicides recorded in Lithuania in 2022, as per the table?

The table indicates that a total of 527 suicides were recorded in Lithuania in 2022. This figure represents the overall count across all age groups and genders.

What was the male suicide rate in Lithuania in 1995 and 2005, according to the table?

The table shows that the male suicide rate in Lithuania was 79.1 per 100,000 in 1995 and 68.1 per 100,000 in 2005. This indicates a decrease in the male suicide rate between these two years.

What was the female suicide rate in Lithuania in 1995 and 2005, according to the table?

The table indicates that the female suicide rate in Lithuania was 15.6 per 100,000 in 1995 and 12.9 per 100,000 in 2005. This shows a reduction in the female suicide rate over that decade.

What was the total suicide rate in Lithuania in 1995 and 2005, according to the table?

The table shows the total suicide rate in Lithuania was 45.6 per 100,000 in 1995 and 38.6 per 100,000 in 2005. This reflects a decrease in the overall suicide rate over that ten-year period.

What was the trend of the suicide rate for both sexes in Lithuania between 1970 and 1995?

Between 1970 and 1995, the suicide rate for both sexes in Lithuania generally increased, starting at 25.1 per 100,000 in 1970 and peaking at 45.6 per 100,000 in 1995. This period saw significant fluctuations but an overall upward trend.

How did the male suicide rate change between 2019 and 2023, according to the chart?

According to the chart, the male suicide rate in Lithuania decreased from 41.5 per 100,000 in 2019 to 32.2 per 100,000 in 2023. This indicates a downward trend in male suicide rates over this period.

How did the female suicide rate change between 2019 and 2023, according to the chart?

The chart shows that the female suicide rate in Lithuania decreased slightly from 7.9 per 100,000 in 2019 to 7.7 per 100,000 in 2023. While a small decrease, it reflects a continued low rate for females compared to males.

What was the overall suicide rate in Lithuania in 2019 and 2023, according to the chart?

The chart indicates that the overall suicide rate in Lithuania was 23.4 per 100,000 in 2019 and 19.6 per 100,000 in 2023. This shows a general decline in the overall suicide rate over these years.

What is the primary topic listed under the "See also" section of the article?

The article lists "List of countries by suicide rate" under the "See also" section. This provides a broader context for understanding Lithuania's position globally regarding suicide statistics.

Suicide In Lithuania Wiki: Lithuania's Silent Struggle: Understanding Suicide Rates

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Overview

Persistent Challenge

Lithuania has faced a significant challenge with high suicide rates, a notable social issue within the country. While the rate has been decreasing since its peak in 1995, it remains the highest in the European Union and the second highest among OECD countries as of 2021, underscoring the ongoing need for attention and intervention.^[1]^[3]

Current Rates

As of 2022, the suicide rate stood at 18.6 suicides per 100,000 persons. This figure, while lower than previous years, still indicates a rate considerably higher than many other developed nations.^[3]^[4]

Societal Context

The high rates have been historically linked to the profound social and economic transformations following the fall of communism in the early 1990s. Factors such as economic instability, declining living standards, widespread alcoholism, and limited access to psychological services were identified as key contributors.^[1]^[5]^[6]

Contributing Factors

Socioeconomic Shifts

The transition from communism brought about dramatic societal and economic changes, including recessions and shifts in living conditions, which studies have linked to increased suicide rates.^[1]^[5]^[6]

Alcoholism and Stigma

Alcohol consumption is frequently cited as a significant factor. Furthermore, traditional masculinity norms may contribute, creating a stigma around seeking psychological help, which exacerbates the issue.^[10]^[11]

Education and Geography

Research indicates a correlation between lower educational attainment and higher suicide rates, particularly within rural populations. Significant variations exist between municipalities, with some experiencing rates more than double the national average.^[8]^[9]

Psychological and Social Factors

Beyond economic pressures, psychological factors, societal intolerance, and bullying are noted contributors. Some studies also suggest that introverted societal tendencies, more pronounced in Lithuania compared to its Baltic neighbors, might play a role.^[7]^[10]

Prevention Efforts

Policy Framework

Lithuania has implemented national strategies and action plans, including the National Mental Health Strategy and the Suicide Prevention Action Plan (2016-2020). The establishment of the Suicide Prevention Bureau in 2015 marked a formal step towards addressing the issue.^[13]

Systemic Gaps

Despite policy efforts, a 2017 report by the National Audit Office concluded that a comprehensive system for aiding individuals at risk of suicide was still lacking. This highlights persistent challenges in service accessibility and coordination across municipalities.^[12]^[14]

Statistical Analysis

Trend Over Time

The provided data illustrates a significant decline in suicide rates since the mid-1990s peak. However, the rates, particularly for males, remain notably high compared to females, reflecting a persistent gender disparity.

The following table details suicide rates per 100,000 population by gender in Lithuania:

Gender	1981	1985	1990	1995	2000	2005	2010	2015	2019	2022
Male	59.4	58.0	44.3	79.1	75.6	68.1	56.1	51.7	36.1	32.2
Female	10.7	12.9	9.7	15.6	16.1	12.9	9.6	8.9	6.2	6.7
Total	33.6	34.1	26.1	45.6	44.1	38.6	31.3	28.9	20.2	18.6
Source: World Health Organization^[15]^[16]

Age and Gender Breakdown (2022)

The distribution of suicides by age group and gender in 2022 highlights the disproportionate impact on males across most age categories.

Number of suicides by age group and gender in Lithuania, 2022:

Age (years)	10–14	15–19	20-24	25-44	45–59	60-74	75+	All
Males	1	3	21	105	116	125	55	426
Females	1	3	4	16	26	25	26	101
Total	2	6	25	121	142	150	81	527
Source: The Institute of Hygiene of Lithuania^[4]

Further Context

Global Perspective

For comparative data and context on suicide rates across different nations, consult the comprehensive list of countries by suicide rate.

View Country Rates ➡️

Historical Trends

Post-Soviet Transition

The period following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked a significant societal upheaval in Lithuania. This era of rapid social and economic change is widely considered a primary driver for the surge in suicide rates observed in the 1990s.^[1]^[5]^[6]

Decline and Persistence

While rates have decreased substantially from their 1995 peak, the persistence of high rates, particularly among males and in certain regions, indicates that the underlying factors require ongoing attention and targeted interventions.^[2]

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Suicide in Lithuania Wikipedia page

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Important Considerations

AI-Generated Content Disclaimer

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence model. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, the information may not be entirely comprehensive, up-to-date, or reflect the most current research.

This is not medical advice. The information presented here should not be considered a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Suicide is a complex issue, and individuals experiencing distress should seek immediate help from qualified mental health professionals or crisis support services. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it due to information found on this website.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.

Lithuania's Silent Struggle

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Overview ℹ️

📈 Persistent Challenge

📊 Current Rates

🌍 Societal Context

Contributing Factors ⚖️

📉 Socioeconomic Shifts

🍺 Alcoholism and Stigma

🎓 Education and Geography

🧠 Psychological and Social Factors

Prevention Efforts 🛡️

📜 Policy Framework

⚠️ Systemic Gaps

Statistical Analysis 📊

📈 Trend Over Time

🔢 Age and Gender Breakdown (2022)

Further Context 🔗

🌍 Global Perspective

Historical Trends ⏳

🕰️ Post-Soviet Transition

📉 Decline and Persistence

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References

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Important Considerations ⚠️

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Persistent Challenge

Current Rates

Societal Context

Contributing Factors

Socioeconomic Shifts

Alcoholism and Stigma

Education and Geography

Psychological and Social Factors

Prevention Efforts

Policy Framework

Systemic Gaps

Statistical Analysis

Trend Over Time

Age and Gender Breakdown (2022)

Further Context

Global Perspective

Historical Trends

Post-Soviet Transition

Decline and Persistence

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Considerations

AI-Generated Content Disclaimer