Risk factors for suicide among children and adolescents in Arab countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the risk factors associated with suicide among children and adolescents in Arab countries.

STUDY

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science was conducted till May 2025. Using STATA version 18, a meta-analysis of proportions was conducted to estimate pooled prevalence rates with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs), using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

A total of 21 studies conducted across various Arab countries were included, the majority of which were cross-sectional. The most prevalent risk factors were low self-esteem (49 %), family conflict (31 %), psychiatric disorders (28 %), bullying (24 %), and psychosocial problems (24 %). The pooled prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempts was 22 % and 10 %, respectively. Self-poisoning (58 %) and hanging (38 %) were the most common suicide methods. Substantial heterogeneity was observed across analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Suicide among Arab youth represents a significant and underrecognized public health challenge, driven by psychological, familial, and social stressors. Strengthening culturally tailored mental health services and school-based prevention strategies is urgently needed to address this growing crisis.