Changes in suicide rates in Malaysia during the COVID-19 pandemic: An interrupted time series analysis

Key Points

• This research aims to examine the changes in suicide rates in Malaysia during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Conducted an interrupted time series analysis
• Assessed suicide rates before, during, and after the outbreak
• Evaluated correlations with unemployment and outbreak measures
• Suicide rates significantly increased during the later outbreak periods
• Higher rates were associated with increased unemployment and control measures
• Findings highlight the need for ongoing monitoring of mental health