Suicide-related stigma across cultures and communities

What we know

It is important to note that although there are differences across cultures and communities, there will be differences in experiences of suicide-related stigma within these groups too. 

We should also be mindful of how structural factors (e.g., policies and legislation) contribute to the stigmatisation of suicide within cultures and communities.

Research and people with lived and living experience of suicide and suicide-related stigma tell us that:

• Suicide and mental health conditions are perceived and understood differently across cultural settings. Certain cultures do not prioritise the prevention and intervention of suicide or mental health concerns. This can lead to people being isolated or feeling like they do not have the right to reach out for help.

• Healthcare professionals should be mindful of how stigma may act as a barrier to disclosure. In some cultures, people who have died by suicide are not given a proper burial, their houses are burnt down, and families are told they are not allowed to mourn. This can make people fearful about sharing information, even with guarantees that it will be managed confidentially.

• Suicide is illegal in at least 23 countries around the world. Criminalising suicide may contribute to the stigma attached to it and it is important to consider how people from those countries may be scared to speak out about their experiences with suicide.

• Within some religions suicide is viewed as a sin and therefore many believe people who die by suicide have taken the power away from their God. 

• Stigma can be protective among some religions. Research has shown that among those who view suicide as “sinful”, suicide-related stigma can encourage help-seeking. 

• Stigma can also have an impact on how people from minority backgrounds are perceived and treated when seeking and receiving help. This stigmatisation and discrimination can lead to fear and discomfort around engaging with mental health professionals.