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Parliamentary question - E-006072/2020Parliamentary question
E-006072/2020

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the increase in suicides

Question for written answer  E-006072/2020
to the Commission
Rule 138
Luisa Regimenti (ID), Silvia Sardone (ID), Lucia Vuolo (ID), Simona Baldassarre (ID), Tudor Ciuhodaru (S&D), Daniela Rondinelli (NI)

In several European countries and around the world, we are witnessing a worrying increase in the number of suicide cases since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The WHO and various international studies have confirmed this trend, also seen in other global emergencies, such as that of Sars. They point out that social isolation, fear of contagion, uncertainty, chronic stress and economic difficulties linked to the COVID-19 pandemic are just some of the conditions that can lead to the development or exacerbation of depressive disorders, and increase suicide rates.

We also note the lack of up-to-date data and statistics on suicide rates in Europe. Consideration of this issue could foster a multi-tier perspective and encourage the adoption of national programmes to support the population, especially vulnerable groups.

In view of this:

Will the Commission collect a set of accurate and reliable data on suicide rates in all Member States, since the start of the pandemic, by classifying the statistics in such a way as to identify the sectors that are the most affected by the crisis?

How does it intend to promote the exchange of experience and best practices at EU level for the purpose of analysis, definition of evidence-based practices and the development of recommendations and guidelines to identify areas in which preventative measures should be focused?

Last updated: 30 November 2020
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