A REVIEW STUDY OF FACTORS INFLUENCING SUICIDE AMONG SOUTH ASIANS IN THE UK

Abstract

Purpose of the study: A systematic review of studies on factors in the suicide of South Asians in the UK was reviewed to enhance understanding by aggregating those factors contributing to suicide in this diverse group. Methodology: Digital databases PsycArticles, PsycINFO, PubMed, JSTOR, Science Direct, Web of sciences, and Google Scholar, were searched from 1990 to 2018 and, six studies were included for the review. Main Findings: Factors like cultural conflict, mental health issues, family relationships, and religious & other social aspects influence suicide in South Asians in the UK. Also, better family contact, culturally sensitive interventions & services, and educational pamphlets could support preventive strategies. Applications of this study: Future research needs to concentrate on the reasons behind high rates of suicide in social class 1 and disaggregation of factors in sub-groups of South Asians in the UK to support the development of sound preventive strategies. Novelty/Originality of this study: First study ever to aggregate factors in the suicide of South Asians in the UK.