Suicidal expressions among the Swedish reindeer-herding Sami population

Aims: The objective of this study was to investigate suicidal expressions among reindeer-herding Sami in Sweden. Subjects: A total of 315 reindeer-herding Sami (167 men, 148 women) were compared with geographically matched reference populations comprising 1354 persons (652 men, 702 women). Methods: A questionnaire measuring different aspects of suicidal behaviour, such as exposure to suicide and suicidal ideation in significant others, own suicidal problems and attitudes towards suicide, was distributed to members of Sami villages through community leaders and to the reference group by post. Data were analysed with regard to population, gender, age group, mental health, alcohol use, work strain and formal education. Results: Comparison between groups did not reveal any differences in attitudes towards suicide; however, it did show significantly higher exposure to both suicide and suicidal behaviour in significant others in the Sami group. Compared to the reference group, both Sami women and especially Sami men reported a higher prevalence of various types of suicidal problems, particularly suicidal ideation. In addition, anxiety and alcohol use were associated with suicidal expressions in the Sami group. Conclusion: The study identifies reindeer-herding Sami men and women to be at particular risk for suicidal expressions. Specific attention should be paid to young and middle-aged Sami men with hazardous alcohol consumption and anxiety.