Some countries still have laws that make it illegal to attempt suicide, even though we now understand more about mental health issues and how they affect society. Punishing people who are already struggling with mental health issues is not a good idea, and we need to rethink this approach. A reason given for keeping these laws are that they deter people from attempting suicide. But research shows that these laws do not deter people and actually make it harder for them to get help. This article argues that we need a more effective and compassionate approach.
The Deterrent Effect of Criminalization is Doubtful
Some people think that making suicide a crime will make others less likely to attempt it. But when someone is in a state of mental distress, they are not thinking about the legal consequences of their actions. Studies also show mixed results on whether criminalizing suicide has any deterrent effect. Suicide is often underreported, and different countries have different laws, making it hard to get clear data. Recent studies suggest that criminalizing suicide is associated with slightly increased national suicide rates, especially among women.
Decriminalization Does Not Mean Accepting Suicide
Some people believe that if we decriminalize suicide, it means we are saying it’s okay to do it. But decriminalizing means that we don’t treat it as a criminal offense, and instead, we address it as a health issue that needs help and support from healthcare professionals. Criminalizing suicide stops people from seeking help when they need it, and it can even result in people facing prosecution after a suicide attempt. It also promotes stigmatizing attitudes towards mental health and mental illness, which is harmful.
The Need for Change
There are many factors to consider before changing these laws, includes public opinion, religious beliefs, ethical values of healthcare professionals, and political views. Different countries have taken different approaches to this issue, and it can be complicated.
For example, Sweden decriminalized suicide in 1864, while Pakistan only recently did so in 2022. Some countries still have these laws because they don’t have enough mental health services, particularly in public places.
Read also: Google Launches Suicide Hotline for Pakistan
Effective Treatment and Prevention Programs
Every year, an estimated 703,000 people die by suicide globally, and for every death, there are likely to be 20 other people who attempt it. Most people who die by suicide or attempt it have a diagnosable mental illness, such as depression, schizophrenia, and alcohol-related disorders. Providing effective treatment at the point of contact with health services should be the primary aim of health professionals.
Prevention programs need to be implemented and funded, such as controlling toxic substances and medicines, detoxifying domestic gas and car emissions, restricting access to guns, and erecting barriers to deter jumping from high places. Responsible media reporting, including the restriction or control of social media platforms associated with the rise in teenage suicide, is also essential.
