Socioeconomic disparities and attempted suicide: state of knowledge and implications for research and prevention

Abstract

This comprehensive review covers studies that have examined the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and attempted suicide over a 20 year period. As a whole, they suggest that greater socioeconomic disadvantage is often – but not consistently – associated with higher rates of suicide attempts. The strength of the association varies across countries, the demographic groups examined, the SES measures used and the data source. This knowledge comes from a few, mostly high-income, countries. Future studies are needed that clarify the mechanisms involved and determine whether they are context-specific. The evidence base as to how to avoid – or narrow down – socioeconomic divides in attempted suicide is poor, and we do not know whether documented counter-measures work best where they may be needed most.

Keywords:

• self-inflicted injuries
• deprivation
• poverty
• social context
• inequalities
• review