By Dana Halawi

BEIRUT, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) -- Some Lebanese clinical psychologists blamed mental illness for the suicide cases recently happened in the country amid economic crisis.

Several suicide cases took place following the protests that erupted in the country on Oct. 17. Local media have been largely attributing the tragedy to the deteriorating economy.

Mia Atwi, clinical psychologist and co-founder of Embrace, a non-governmental organization and awareness support network for people with mental illnesses, said mental illness could be the main cause of the suicides.

The main reason behind suicide is usually the prevalence of psychological disorders including depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder, as well as genetic disorders, Atwi said.

She said financial difficulties may play a role by exerting pressure on individuals who are predisposed to suicide.

Dina Makkouk, another clinical psychologist, agrees that genetics, resilience, thoughts, personality and mental health are all factors behind suicides.

"A mentally healthy person who goes through tough economic conditions will surely experience sadness but won't resort to suicide. Psychological and mental health factors play a greater part, while economic conditions can be a trigger for the suicides," she said.

Naji al-Flayti, a father of two in Arsal, Bekaa, ended his life on Dec. 2. His sister told Annahar local newspaper that he had been unemployed since leaving the military six years ago.

On Dec. 4, Danny Abou Haidar, 41, ended his life. His father told Al Jadeed local TV channel that his suicide was caused by the "situation in the country in general."

Several people also attempted to set themselves on fire during the recent demonstrations.

Atwi said after the protests, Embrace's hotline, the first National Emotional Support and Suicide Prevention Helpline in Lebanon, witnessed a remarkable increase in calls by people in need of psychological help.

Atwi was afraid that there could be copycat suicides after the recent cases. "Local media should be highly aware of its coverage for such incidents. The details of the suicidal methods should not be reported," she said. Enditem

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