The Impacts of COVID-19 on Suicide Rates

Every day, we hear about the COVID-19 pandemic in the news, which is understandable since so much about it is still unknown. What we don't hear as much about, though, is how people are mentally affected by the virus. While there have already been reports of suicide related to the pandemic, the reports have been majorly overshadowed by the fatalities of COVID-19. How does the suicide rate measure up to the fatalities of COVID? According to the most recent data from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (ASFP), and the CDC, the fatality rate of suicide attempts is slightly higher than the fatality rate of COVID cases.

Suicide rates have been rising consistently for the past two decades. Suicide is actually the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. On average, there are 132 suicides per day. From what we know about mental health and suicide risk, it is very likely that the suicide rate will significantly increase due to COVID. Here’s why:

• Social isolation may increase suicide risk. We all know that social connection is very important for people to overcome depression, and there is research to back that up. COVID has created a significant amount of social isolation, from stay at home orders at the beginning, to families being afraid to see each other in prevention of getting each other sick. This is especially effecting hospital patients and people in retirement homes.

• Economic stress may increase suicide risk. It’s no surprise that people are struggling financially from businesses closing, people losing jobs, and the shut down of public events. Studies have shown an increase in suicides following severe economic stress, and this situation is no different.

• The influence of media may increase suicide risk. Since the beginning of COVID, the media has been covering the impact daily. Given the negativity conveyed by the news, it is no shock that many people have become angry and depressed by the preventative measures taken, and by how much is still unknown.

• Other medical problems and reduced access to care may increase suicide risk. The anticipation of COVID caused many hospitals to reserve space for COVID patients, and many doctors offices closed their doors for general check-ups. Elective surgeries were cancelled, wait times at urgent care clinics and emergency departments increased dramatically, and people with chronic pain have had to wait without much relief. Those who are suffering from medical problems are already more vulnerable for suicidal thoughts, and losing access to medical care can reduce their ability to cope with these issues.

• The loss of community contact may increase suicide risk. Community programs such as religious services and 12-step programs have been cancelled, which are significant supports for many people. The loss of these programs has triggered many relapses for those who struggle with addiction. Studies have also shown that attending weekly religious services decreases risk for suicide.

As you can see, the effects of this pandemic check off many of the risk factors of suicide. Here is an additional list, not necessarily related to COVID, but important nonetheless:

-Access to lethal means including firearms and drugs

-Exposure to another person’s suicide, or to graphic or sensationalized accounts of suicide

-Previous suicide attempts

-Family history of suicide

-Childhood abuse, neglect or trauma

Something to look out for when you may be concerned that someone may be suicidal are warning signs. These signs are of greatest concern when they are in relation to a recent painful event, loss, or change. Here are some warning signs to be aware of:

If a person talks about…

-Killing themselves

-Feeling hopeless

-Having no reason to live

-Being a burden to others

-Feeling trapped

-Unbearable pain

If a person’s behavior changes…

-Increased use of alcohol or drugs

-Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods

-Withdrawing from activities

-Isolating from family and friends

-Sleeping too much or too little

-Visiting or calling people to say goodbye

-Giving away prized possessions

-Aggression

-Fatigue

A person’s mood may change…

-Depression

-Anxiety

-Loss of interest

-Irritability

-Humiliation/Shame

-Agitation/Anger

-Relief/Sudden Improvement

So where does this leave us? Well, there’s not a whole lot we can do about the restrictions and preventative measures taken due to COVID, but we can always support others who may be struggling. Educate yourself and others on the risk factors and warning signs of suicide (if you’ve gotten this far in this blog post, you’ve already done this! Kudos.) Support your local businesses. Reach out to friends and family who may be struggling. Reach out for help if you are struggling. Donate to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. If someone you know needs help urgently, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text 741741, go to your local Emergency Room or call 911.

Mental wellness is something I am very passionate about, and mental illness is something that needs to be talked about. End the stigma. Talk about it. Reach out for help. Be a support to those who need it.

Written by: Olivia Clark-Richards, MA, LPC