أحمد عبدالله

Registered suicide deaths in Lebanon rose from 38 to 50 between March and May 2025 and the same period in 2026, an increase of about 32 percent, while annual deaths also increased in 2025. Experts caution that the figures may underestimate the true toll because of stigma, incomplete reporting and weak data coordination. They link heightened risk to Lebanon’s prolonged economic, social and health crises, war, displacement, bereavement, financial hardship and loss of housing, while stressing that suicide usually results from multiple interacting factors rather than a single cause. The national hotline, operated by Embrace with the National Mental Health Programme, now receives more than 60 calls a day and offers free, confidential, round-the-clock support, with mobile intervention teams available for imminent risks. Expanded community services, early intervention and public education are identified as key priorities.