Greece Records 469 Suicides in 2024, Crete and Attica Most Affected

The number of reported suicides in Greece increased to 469 in 2024, up from 451 in 2023, according to data released this week by the Klimaka Suicide Observatory. Experts warn that actual figures may be higher due to underreporting and inadequate tracking systems.

The Center for Suicide Prevention highlights a concerning trend among young people, reporting that 12% to 16% of adolescents aged 14 to 19 exhibit self-harming behavior, which could indicate a higher suicide risk later in life. Additionally, Greece lacks a system to record suicide attempts that result in hospitalization, further obscuring the true extent of the issue.

Key findings from the Klimaka report include:

• For every suicide in Greece, there are an estimated 20 to 30 failed attempts.
• Men account for the majority of suicides (86%), compared to 14% for women.
• The highest suicide rates were recorded among individuals aged 50-54 and 20-24, with 9.6% of cases involving people over 80.
• Vulnerable groups, including residents in refugee camps, military and police personnel, hospital patients, and prisoners, showed higher suicide rates.
• Common methods of suicide included:
  • Hanging (29%)
  • Self-inflicted gunshot (25.8%)
  • Jumping from a height (24.3%)
• Geographically, the highest suicide rates in Greece were recorded in:
  • Crete (17%)
  • Attica (16%)
  • Thessaly and the Peloponnese
• The months with the highest reported suicides were June (46), April (45), September (39), and February (32).

The report’s analysts stress the urgent need to strengthen support systems and implement targeted interventions for at-risk groups. Experts emphasize that expanding mental health services, improving suicide attempt reporting, and raising awareness could help reduce future incidents.

Source: Τοvima.com