Suicidal expressions in young Swedish Sami, a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Suicidal expressions and attitudes toward suicide (ATTS) are significant public health concerns.
• Understanding variations in suicidal behavior across different ethnic and cultural groups is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate suicidal expressions, ATTS, and experiences with suicide in significant others among young Swedish Sami.
• To compare these experiences with a matched group of young Swedes.
• To analyze the influence of gender, occupation, and negative societal treatment on suicidal behavior within the Sami population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 516 young Swedish Sami (18-28 years) and 218 matched Swedish controls.
• Utilized parts of the ATTS questionnaire to assess various aspects of suicidal ideation, plans, and attempts.
• Data analysis considered gender, occupation, geographical location, and experiences of ethnicity-related negative societal treatment.

Main Results:

• Young Sami reported higher rates of suicidal ideation, life weariness, and death wishes compared to young Swedes.
• No significant difference in the prevalence of suicide attempts between Sami and Swedes.
• Subgroups of Sami, including women and reindeer herders, showed higher odds of suicide attempts and plans.
• Experience of ethnicity-related bad treatment was associated with increased odds of suicidal plans in Sami individuals.

Conclusions:

• Young Sami exhibit increased suicidal ideation, death wishes, and life weariness compared to young Swedes, though suicide attempt rates are similar.
• Positive attitudes towards suicide and increased awareness may be protective factors.
• Severe circumstances and ethnicity-related discrimination significantly contribute to elevated levels of suicidal plans and attempts in specific Sami subgroups.