Citation

Marusic A, Zorko M, Swapp R. Psychiatr. Danub. 2004; 16(1-2): 7-13.

Affiliation

andrej.marusic@ivz-rs.si

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Facultas Universitatis Studiorum Zagrabiensis - Danube Symposion of Psychiatry)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The objective of this review is to provide general facts and data regarding Slovenian suicides. Recent data shows that Slovenia has a suicide rate of around 30, which places it among the highest rates in the world. The review examined Slovenian suicides both apart from and in comparison to world data and trends. Historical suicide statistics are dealt with, including an evaluation of data collected during the Yugoslavian years in contrast with data collected following the independence of Slovenia in 1991. The discussion includes an assessment of suicide rates throughout Europe and possible explanations for various trends in these rates, including potential economic, genetic, and alcohol-related causes. Furthermore the variations in suicide rates throughout Slovenian municipalities are discussed. Both unique aspects of Slovenian suicide (such as a high proportion of hangings) and commonalities with world data are reviewed. Suicide in Slovenia is a considerable public mental health problem and in order to prevent it, we must first thoroughly understand its characteristics in time and space.