2310 – Suicides In Kosovo In Five Year Period 2008–2012, An Overview For Possible Social Motives

Abstract

Introduction

It is distinctive for Kosovo population that before the war of 1999 Kosovo has had the lowest rate of suicides in Europe. Now, after the war the data and findings tell us for a considerate increase of number of suicides.

Objectives

Presentation of suicide cases in Kosovo in period from 2008–2012 analyzed from aspect of social reasons that has influenced an increasing number.

Aims

Identification of social factors and their possible direct/indirect impact in phenomena of suicides and as well the reflection in their prevention.

Methods

Data on cases were collected retroactively, by the Internal Affairs of Kosovo and Psychiatry Clinic. Analysis of data was done with Excel and SPSS 14.

Results

In the period 2008–2012, 270 persons were found to have committed suicide. This is an increase compared to before the war. In over 80% of cases come to the expression of social factors: unemployment level (44.9%), low income per capita, the population on average 26 years old, enormous growth of drug users and alcohol (20.000), low budget for mental health, dominance in rural settlements, debt, domestic violence, inability to buy drugs, the inability of the education of the children, war trauma/PTSD, large number of people who are missing or dead after the recent war in Kosovo (8 cases).

Conclusion

The number of suicide cases has increased. Social factors play a major role in this.