Psychosocial Risk Factors for Suicide

Objective: There is little information as to the social or environmental correlates to human suicidal behavior. Thus, the purpose of this overview was to investigate and review the psychosocial correlates that are suggested to mediate suicidal behaviors. Method: A literature search was conducted on suicide and its risk, risk factors, population characteristics, and prediction. Thereafter, articles dealing with familial, social and environmental characteristics as risk factors for suicidal behavior are summarized in a review which is written in a narrative manner. Results: Risk factors for suicide occurring from the interaction between the individual and family context (abuse, loss, family discord) and those occurring from the interaction between the individual and his or her larger environmental context (stressful life events, social influence and support) are presented. Conclusions: This overview provides a summary of the recognized psychosocial risk factors for suicidal behavior. It is revealed that the psychosocial characteristics are a necessary component of a suicide risk assessment. Familial, social and environmental factors must be understood in a comprehensive context along with the psychiatric disorder and the biological vulnerability.