Changing patterns of suicide methods in Sri Lanka: A gender-based classification (2016 - 2021)

Abstract

Background: Suicide in Sri Lanka is still a serious public health problem, with gender-based differences in methods and trends over time. This study analyzes the temporal trends, methods, and gender of suicide cases over a six-year period from 2016 to 2021. Its objectives were to identify the most prevalent suicide methods, examine gender-specific patterns, and assess year-to-year trends in suicide. Method: This study used a secondary data analysis approach using reports related to suicide from the Department of Census and Statistics. An observational-based approach was used, using systematic data collection from 2016 to 2021. The dataset included 18,958 suicide cases, which were classified into 15 different methods and separated by gender. Data analysis used descriptive statistics including proportions, percentages, and temporal trend analysis. Statistical analysis included gender calculation, method-specific distributions, and year-to-year percentage changes to identify patterns. Results: The analysis revealed a total of 18,958 cases over the six-year period, with an average of 3,160 cases reported annually. Men accounted for 79.5% (n=15,077) and women for 20.5% (n=3,881), with a male-to-female ratio of 3.9:1. The three most prevalent methods were hanging (49.8%, n=9,444), ingestion of insecticides and pesticides (21.3%, n=4,033), and other methods (6.2%, n=1,175). Temporal analysis showed the maximum incidents in 2018 (n=3,281) and the lowest in 2020 (n=2,974), with a year-to-year variability of 4.3%. Notably, the 2020 data exhibited unusual patterns with an increase in firearm use (16.5%) and explosives (10.2%). Conclusion: Hanging remains the leading method of suicide in Sri Lanka, requiring targeted intervention. The decrease in pesticide-related suicides shows the impact of regulatory controls, while the increase in firearm-related and high-point jumping suicides indicates [a need for monitoring]. Emerging methods such as drug injection need to be closely monitored. Recommendations include restricting access to common methods (e.g., pesticides and firearms), strengthening mental health services, and launching awareness campaigns targeting at-risk populations. Community engagement programs for men and improved regulatory measures are crucial for reducing suicide rates. Further research is needed to understand the reasons behind method selection and inform more effective prevention policies.