Exploring the Macroeconomic Determinants of Self-Harm Prevalence in South Asian Countries

Abstract

Purpose: In recent years, the issue of self-harm has emerged as a critical public health concern globally, drawing attention to its multifaceted nature and the complex interplay of factors contributing to its prevalence. We aim to underpin this cross-country relationship between self-harm and macroeconomic variables. Methods: A balanced annual macroeconomic indicator data spanning two decades (2000-2019) across seven Asian countries. quantile regression analysis was used along with a variety of conventional tests, including those for cross-sectional dependency, panel unit roots, and panel cointegration were conducted. Findings: The findings from quantile regression analysis revealed a variation in association among different indicators during different quantiles. Inflation, poverty, corruption, total labor force participation, and out of pocket expenditures showed a significant association while GDP growth and participants locality showed no significant association with prevalence of self-harm in target regions. Self-harm is also strongly associated with early indicators of Poverty. Implications:  This study suggest that social and economic policy measures and programs related to tax cut, corruption control, health care safety and insurance should be implemented both prior to and during economic crises to prevent self-harm and loss of human capital of the society.