Women's Suicide: a silent crime against women

With an annual number of approximately 6 suicides in every 100,000 population, Iran is a country enjoying a rather low rate of suicide. However, the number is unfortunately increasing. Although the rate of suicides among men is more than that among women, more women commit suicide in Eelam and Kermanshah provinces due to the traditional and tribal social structures in those areas, the enforcement of many limitations against woman, and those societies’ being in a transitional state. Most people committing suicide in Iran are 18-30 years old, often illiterate or low in literacy, and jobless or lacking in a permanent job. Familial problems are in most cases the primary cause of suicide, with most women attempting suicide by taking high doses of tranquilizers or by self-burning in some areas. Psychologists consider personal psychological problems, especially depression, to be the cause of suicide in women, while sociologists are more interested in social structure and conditions and their impact on people. Removing women’s social and economic problems and strengthening their religious belief and trust in Allah are among the measures which should be taken to prevent women’s committing suicide.