RESUMO
Since the beginning of the Syrian conflict in 2011, Syrians have faced violence and displacement causing an increase in mental health issues. The COVID-19 pandemic, the 2023 earthquake, and deteriorating living conditions have exacerbated these issues. Suicide in Syria remains an under-researched topic since accurate data are difficult to obtain. In this study, we aimed to explore the demographics and risk factors of suicide in Syria by performing a retrospective content analysis of selected online news (media) outlets from across Syria. Twelve news outlets from the three regions of Syria were selected and news of suicide cases were searched retrospectively. The age range was between 9 and 79 years old with the average age being 27.1 ± SD 5.9 years. The most reported causes of suicide were harsh living conditions (18.5%) and relationship problems (18.3%). The most common method of suicide was hanging followed by using firearms. More suicides occurred at night and in the summer and spring seasons. Based on our study's results, young adult, male, unmarried, individuals in rural settings and northern governorates were at the highest risk of suicide in Syria. This study highlights the urgent need for mental health interventions that address the unique challenges faced by Syrians.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Nearly 700 000 Syrian refugees currently reside in Jordan. Chronic disease and neuropsychiatric conditions are leading contributors of morbidity among refugee and host communities. The bidirectional relationship between depression and chronic disease is not well studied among displaced Syrian or Jordanian women. AIMS: This qualitative study explores the bidirectional relationship between chronic illness and comorbid depression, as well as related themes, among Jordanian and Syrian women with known chronic disease-populations that receive medical care through distinct and evolving health care structures-to assist providers and policy makers in creating culturally sensitive interventions. METHODS: Forty Jordanian women and Syrian refugees with chronic disease were interviewed at four clinical settings in Amman, Jordan. Data collection occurred from June-August 2017. Content analysis was completed with Dedoose, a qualitative coding software. RESULTS: The majority of Syrian women endorsed a relationship between their chronic disease and depression. Some women felt too depressed to take medication for chronic conditions, while others felt depression contributed to chronic illnesses. Syrian women reported less perceived social support than Jordanian women. Although some Syrians were unable to afford medications, they reported fewer negative health care experiences than Jordanians. Both populations endorsed female-specific hardships impacting their mental health, including the demands of motherhood, household duties, and marital strife. CONCLUSION: This study explores the intersection of depression and chronic disease among Syrian and Jordanian women. By documenting stressors and experiences accessing health care, mental health and chronic disease interventions can be integrated and tailored to these populations.