Suicide and Self-Harming Among Young Women: A Qualitative Exploratory Study in Southern Punjab, Pakistan

TL;DR

This study explores the reasons behind suicide and self-harm among young women in Southern Punjab, Pakistan, highlighting social, cultural, and personal factors.

Contribution

The study provides novel qualitative insights into the complex causes of suicidality among young women in a marginalized region of Pakistan.

Findings

Suicidality is linked to insults, low self-esteem, household pressures, and unfulfilled romantic desires.

Factors are categorized into personal, social, and cultural dimensions, including forced marriages and lack of family support.

The study recommends education and policy measures to prevent suicide and address forced marriages.

Abstract

Background: Suicide and self-injury are serious public health concerns, especially in young populations, owing to multiple social, cultural, and gender determinants. Qualitative evidence exploring narratives regarding the factors behind suicide among young women is rare in Pakistan. Objective: The present study aims to explore the complex dimensions of suicide or self-injury among young women of Southern Punjab. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in a marginalized district in South Punjab, with participants consenting to in-person meetings at their homes or phone interviews. We collected detailed accounts of fifteen deceased girls or self-harm survivors, with insights provided by close relatives of the victims. Results: Our findings identified several conducive factors to suicidality, including receiving insults in front of others, low self-esteem, household pressures, work burdens, unfulfilled romantic desires, feelings of worthlessness, cheating in love, marriage without choice, and engagement in risky behaviors. These causes could be categorized into personal (such as an inferiority complex), social (a lack of family support and frequent conflicts), and cultural factors (forced marriages). Conclusions: Our study advocates for empowering women through education and restricting access to suicide means, such as pesticides or Paraphenylenediamine (PPD). Moreover, the government should take strict measures to discourage the forced marriage of young females in rural contexts. This study highlights the importance of integrating suicide prevention initiatives with research efforts within Pakistan’s healthcare system.

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