Why suicide rates in Czechia are higher than the EU average

Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, Czechia continues to face serious mental health challenges. Suicide rates remain above the EU average, with men and the elderly most at risk. 

The country’s official suicide rate is 11.6 per 100,000 inhabitants. What's worse, the figures may understate the true extent of the problem; NUDZ experts point out that many deaths are classified as accidents or of undetermined intent. More complete data, including police records, will be released later this month.

In Czechia, men take their own lives far more often than women; there were around four male suicides for every one female suicide in 2023.

Mental health struggles extend to younger generations; research from NUDZ shows that up to 40 percent of ninth-graders display moderate to severe depression, while 30 percent show anxiety symptoms. Twice as many girls experience mental health difficulties compared with boys, the NUDZ finds. 

Several factors may help explain why Czechia’s suicide rate is above average. Aging populations, social isolation, limited access to mental health care, and cultural stigma around discussing mental health all contribute.

"We should raise this topic more in societal debates on mental health support, social policies, but also in interpersonal relationships," warns Nicolas Say, an NUDZ researcher.

Economic challenges, such as unemployment and inflation, are linked to increased suicide rates. Experts also point to historical transitions in Central Europe, including the post-communist shift to a market economy, which created social dislocation and inequalities that can increase mental health risks. 

National and global Mental Health Weeks are now beginning, which run from Sept. 10 to Oct. 10, which is World Mental Health Day. They are dedicated, among other things, to community services providing social and health services for people with mental illnesses.

The observance also “draws attention to the need of paying attention to employees, and supporting their mental health and wellbeing in the work environment," NUDZ destigmatization specialist Slavomíra Pukanov said.

Members of the public in Czechia can join a variety of educational events, including discussions, concerts, and lectures, organized by numerous partners, including the Mental Health Weeks initiative.

NUDZ experts will also on Sept. 17 host the fourth annual Candle for a Lost Life march for suicide survivors in Prague, Brno, Pilsen, and other Czech cities, open to both survivors and the public.