Suicide in the Ukraine: Epidemiology, Knowledge, and Attitudes of the Population

The rate of suicide in the Ukraine is 24 per 100,000 population. It is higher in the rural areas & varies by region. Suicidal behaviour in the post-totalitarian society exists in a special social, psychological, & cultural context that creates obstacles for suicide prevention. The “Soviet syndrome is described. Research shows an ambivalence of feelings & attitudes, & a high prevalence of mythical ideas about suicide. Rates of violent & accidental deaths from 1989 to 1993 are also provided.