The effect of economic downturn, financial hardship, unemployment, and relevant government responses on suicide.

Abstract

Economic circumstances and related factors, including unemployment and poverty, can have substantial effects on suicide rates. This relationship applies in all countries, irrespective of their World Bank income status or level of development. Therefore, means of mitigating such influences are essential components of strategies to reduce suicides. In this Series paper, we consider examples of such initiatives, including national policies to try to reduce the effect of economic downturns, efforts to maintain employment and avoid damaging austerity measures, maintenance of reasonable minimum wage levels, and specific policies to assist those most affected by poverty. We also highlight upstream measures such as investment in transport infrastructure, industries, and retraining programmes. Positive public health messaging that encourages coping, together with discouragement of media stories with messages that could contribute to hopelessness in those experiencing economic difficulties, can also be important components of strategies to try to reduce the effect of economic downturn on suicide.