The Role of Unemployment, Financial Hardship, and Economic Recession on Suicidal Behaviors and Interventions to Mitigate Their Impact: A Review

Understanding the social determinants and risk factors for suicidal behaviors underlies the development of effective suicide prevention interventions. This review focused on recently published literature (2010 onwards), with the aim to determine the role of economic factors (at the individual and population level) on suicidal behaviors and ideation as well as the effectiveness of interventions addressing these factors in reducing suicidal behaviors and ideation. Where available, literature examining the economic impact of COVID-19 was highlighted. Economic recession and unemployment are associated with increased risk of suicidal behavior at the population and individual level. Additionally, personal financial problems such as debt and financial strain are associated with increased risk of suicidal behavior and ideation at the individual level. Regarding interventions, unemployment benefits, employment protection legislation, higher minimum wage and active labor market programs may reduce suicide at the population level. However, it is not clear what impact they have at the individual level, nor in relation to suicide attempts, self-harm, or suicidal ideation. There was a lack of evidence as to the effectiveness of financially focused suicide prevention interventions at either level. Current findings were contextualized within, and advance, prominent social theoretical models. Recommendations focused on future areas of research, including the unfolding economic impact of COVID-19, as well as the co-design and evaluation of tailored interventions and/or gatekeeper training for those in the financial and welfare sector, and enhanced early education aimed at increasing financial literacy in young people before onset or exacerbation of financial hardship.

Automated summary

Understanding the role of economic factors in suicidal behaviors and the effectiveness of relevant interventions is crucial for developing suicide prevention strategies. This review examines recent literature and finds that economic recession, unemployment, and personal financial problems are associated with an increased risk of suicidal behavior and ideation. Interventions such as unemployment benefits, employment protection legislation, higher minimum wage, and active labor market programs may reduce suicides at the population level, but their impact on individuals and other aspects of suicide are unclear. There is also a lack of evidence on the effectiveness of financially focused suicide prevention interventions. The study recommends future research on the economic impact of COVID-19, co-designing and evaluating tailored interventions, and enhancing financial literacy education.