Journal article

A Muslim suicide

MA Sarfraz, D Castle

Australasian Psychiatry | Published : 2002

Abstract

Objective: To describe the case of a young Muslim male who completed suicide and discuss the implications in terms of his religion. Method: Case report. Results: The patient's suicide occurred on the background of parental expectations regarding his career, criticism of his interests and lifestyle, and the development of a depressive illness. The aftermath was characterised by the family being rejected by their community because of the stigma associated with suicide in the religion. Conclusions: It is a myth that suicide is rare among Muslims. Muslim communities need to be re-educated about suicide phenomena through their leaders at home and abroad.

University of Melbourne Researchers