Risk Factors for Suicide Post-Natural Disasters: A Systematic Review

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Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Risk Factors for Suicidal Behaviours after Natural Disasters: A Systematic Review
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Author:

Hamid Jafari, Mohammad Heidari, Samaneh Heidari, Nasrin Sayfouri


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Risk Factors for Suicidal Behaviours after Natural Disasters: A Systematic Review

Year: 2020 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.3.3

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Natural disasters have profound psychological impacts on affected populations, with a notable increase in the risk of suicide among survivors. This systematic review explores the suicide-related risk factors that emerge following natural disasters, analyzing articles published between January 1990 and September 2018. The findings suggest that a significant number of these studies focus on earthquakes, revealing various risk factors associated with increased suicidal behavior among those impacted. Key risk factors identified include gender, age, pre-existing mental health conditions (such as depression and PTSD), loss of family members, economic hardship, low social support, and personal injuries.

Mental Health and Suicide Risk Post-Disaster

One of the most critical concepts identified in the review is the intertwining relationship between mental health disorders and suicide risk in the aftermath of natural disasters. Research consistently indicates that women, adolescents, the elderly, individuals with severe mental disorders, those suffering from low social support, and orphans are particularly vulnerable to suicide in this context. Depression and PTSD have emerged as potent predictors of suicidal behavior, underlining the importance of psychosocial support for these vulnerable groups to mitigate long-term mental health issues resulting from trauma. Furthermore, the review highlights the need to address both immediate and long-term psychological consequences of disasters to reduce the incidence of suicide.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the review underscores that effective post-disaster interventions must integrate mental health assessments and psychosocial support tailored to the identified risk factors for suicide. This approach is essential in enhancing survivors' resilience and improving their quality of life after disasters. Continuous surveillance and support for affected populations, particularly those exhibiting high vulnerability, is crucial to prevent long-lasting psychological repercussions and promote recovery in the aftermath of natural disasters. Addressing these mental health challenges is integral to building more resilient communities capable of coping with the effects of future disasters.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What psychological effects do natural disasters have on victims?

Natural disasters can lead to various psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and an increased risk of suicide among survivors.

Which demographic groups are most vulnerable to post-disaster suicide?

Women, adolescents, elderly individuals, and those suffering from depression or PTSD, particularly those with low social support and those who are parentless, are identified as highly vulnerable to suicide after natural disasters.

What are common risk factors for suicide after disasters?

Key risk factors include gender, age, serious mental disorders, depression, PTSD, economic status, loss of family members, and low social support, all of which contribute to increased suicide risk following disasters.

Why is post-disaster psychosocial support important?

Providing psychosocial support after disasters is vital as it helps reduce mental disorders, enhances adaptability to new circumstances, and ultimately decreases the likelihood of suicidal behaviors among affected individuals.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Risk Factors for Suicide Post-Natural Disasters: A Systematic Review”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Table:
Tables organize and summarize data for easy understanding and comparison. In research papers, tables often present key findings, risk factors, or demographics, allowing readers to quickly grasp essential information without sifting through dense text. In the context of this study, tables display the analysis of various studies related to suicide after natural disasters.

2) Study (Studying):
A study refers to a systematic investigation of a specific topic. In the context of this paper, it pertains to the reviewed works that examine the psychological impact, particularly suicidal tendencies, arising after natural disasters. Study findings contribute to academic discourse, shaping future research and informing public health strategies.

3) Depression:
Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and various emotional and physical problems. It’s a significant risk factor for suicide, especially heightened among disaster survivors. Recognizing its symptoms can facilitate timely intervention, which is critical in post-disaster scenarios to prevent further psychological deterioration.

4) Family:
Family plays a crucial role in an individual's support system during crises, significantly impacting mental health recovery post-disaster. Loss of family members can exacerbate feelings of grief and loneliness, leading to increased suicide risk. Therefore, understanding familial dynamics is essential when assessing vulnerabilities and providing interventions after natural disasters.

5) Relative:
Relatives, including extended family members, are vital in emotional support following traumatic events. Their presence can mitigate the mental burden of survivors, potentially reducing suicide risk. In post-disaster contexts, loss of relatives may lead to profound grief, making it crucial to address these losses in support strategies for mental health recovery.

6) Post:
The term 'post' refers to the period following an event. In this study, it underscores the aftermath of natural disasters and the subsequent psychological challenges, including suicidal ideation. Understanding post-disaster mental health dynamics is essential for effective intervention programs and addressing the long-term effects on affected populations.

7) Cina:
China is notable in the study for having a substantial number of researched cases related to suicide after natural disasters. As this country often experiences various disasters, understanding the mental health implications helps in developing targeted interventions and policies to mitigate the psychological aftermath for its large population.

8) Mental disorder:
Mental disorders encompass a range of psychological conditions, which can amplify the risk of suicide, especially post-disaster. They include depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Identifying such disorders in the aftermath of a disaster is critical for tailoring effective psychological support and intervention strategies to minimize vulnerability among affected individuals.

9) Mental health:
Mental health pertains to emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how individuals think, feel, and act. In this study, evaluating mental health is crucial for uncovering the long-term effects of disasters. By prioritizing mental health, communities can better recuperate, reducing the risk of suicide among survivors.

10) Education:
Education is a key social determinant impacting individuals' understanding and management of mental health issues. In disaster contexts, education can shape access to information and resources for psychological recovery, fostering resilience. Addressing educational disparities post-disaster is essential for promoting better mental health outcomes and preventing increased suicide risk.

11) Lanka (Lamka, Lànkà):
Lanka, referring to Sri Lanka, serves as an example within the study for examining the psychological aftermath of disasters. It highlights regional differences in mental health responses and emphasizes the importance of local context in developing effective mental health interventions to reduce suicide risk following natural disasters.

12) Patel:
Patel may refer to a researcher or author involved in studies related to mental health or natural disasters. Individuals like Patel contribute to the academic community, providing insights into the complex interplay between environmental trauma and psychological outcomes. Their work informs public health strategies aimed at reducing suicide risks.

13) Guha:
Guha likely refers to Guha-Sapir, a recognized expert in disaster epidemiology. Contributions from researchers like Guha play a significant role in understanding the health impacts of natural disasters, including their association with mental disorders, thereby strengthening the evidence base for effective interventions aimed at mitigating suicide rates.

14) Developing:
Developing contexts often face unique challenges during disasters, including limited resources for mental health care. In such environments, the psychological impacts of natural disasters may lead to elevated suicide rates. Understanding these factors helps shape international policies and intervention strategies aimed at supporting mental health in vulnerable populations.

15) Death:
Death, as a concept, relates closely to the central theme of the study, which investigates suicide rates following disasters. The potential for increased mortality, particularly from suicide, underscores the need for effective mental health interventions to support disaster survivors and address the underlying issues leading to such outcomes.

16) Life:
Life, in the context of this study, refers to the quality and resilience of individuals post-disaster. It encompasses the ongoing challenges survivors face in reclaiming normalcy in their lives. Addressing mental health support is crucial in enhancing the quality of life for those impacted by natural disasters.

17) Science (Scientific):
Scientific knowledge forms the foundation for understanding complex issues like mental health and suicide risk in disaster contexts. This body of knowledge informs evidence-based practices, helping policymakers and practitioners design effective mental health interventions, enhance support systems, and mitigate the psychological repercussions following natural disasters.

18) Sichuan:
Sichuan is referenced for its historical earthquakes, particularly the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. This event serves as a case study for examining the psychological impacts on the population, contributing to the broader understanding of how earthquakes influence mental health outcomes, including increased risks of suicide in survivors.

19) Rules:
Rules within research settings, such as PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews, ensure transparent and accountable processes. These rules guide researchers in conducting systematic reviews, supporting the replicability and accuracy of findings relating to factors influencing suicidal behavior post-disaster, which enhances the reliability of the overall conclusions.

20) Quality:
Quality in research pertains to the rigor and reliability of methodologies and findings. High-quality studies yield credible results that inform effective interventions and policies for improving mental health support post-disaster. Evaluating study quality is crucial for understanding the implications of findings on suicide risks and psychological health.

21) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a psychological condition often heightened after natural disasters, contributing to emotional distress and increasing suicide risks. Understanding its prevalence among survivors is vital for targeted interventions. Addressing anxiety can significantly improve mental health outcomes and serve as a protective factor against developing suicidal behaviors.

22) India:
India is another focus country within the research, emphasizing the need for culturally specific mental health interventions post-disaster. With a significant history of natural disasters, understanding the mental health needs of its diverse populations contributes to meaningful policy development aimed at reducing suicidality and supporting recovery efforts.

23) Male:
Male gender is often studied concerning suicide risk, reflecting cultural expectations and stressors that can contribute to higher suicidal tendencies. Understanding male-specific vulnerabilities post-disaster is essential for tailoring mental health interventions to address the unique challenges faced by men in disaster-affected communities.

24) Language:
Language serves as a critical medium for communication, particularly in disseminating information about mental health. In research, the language of studies influences accessibility and understanding among different populations. Ensuring resources are available in multiple languages can help reach diverse communities in need of mental health support post-disaster.

25) Disease:
Disease, particularly in the context of mental health, refers to disorders such as depression and PTSD that may follow natural disasters. Such diseases significantly increase the risk of suicidal behavior. Recognizing and identifying these diseases among disaster survivors is crucial for implementing effective psychological interventions and support services.

26) Desire:
Desire is often linked to the motivations behind actions, including suicidal ideation. Exploring the desire for life versus the desire for escape from suffering helps researchers understand the nuanced psychological states of disaster survivors. Mental health support aims to transform harmful desires into positive coping mechanisms.

27) Kumada:
Kumada may refer to a researcher whose work contributes to understanding mental health outcomes after disasters. The findings of researchers like Kumada help inform mental health practices and policies tailored to the unique needs of affected populations, ultimately supporting better management of psychological consequences post-disaster.

28) Campu:
Campu may refer to contexts such as universities or educational settings involved in research related to mental health during disasters. These institutions often play a significant role in fostering research collaborations, disseminating findings, and implementing mental health programs addressing the needs of students and communities impacted by crises.

29) Nandi (Nandin, Namdi):
Nandi may be a researcher contributing insights to the consequences of disasters on mental health. Understanding the works of experts like Nandi helps bolster the knowledge base concerning suicide and recovery strategies, aiding policymakers in developing targeted responses to mitigate adverse effects in disaster-stricken populations.

30) Chang:
Chang, likely referring to researchers or studies associated with natural disasters’ impacts on mental health, emphasizes the importance of local context in understanding psychological resilience and vulnerability. Contributions from Chang help inform culturally relevant mental health interventions to enhance recovery in affected communities post-disaster.

31) Vega:
Vega may refer to contributions from researchers examining the links between sociocultural factors and psychological outcomes in disaster contexts. Understanding research published by Vega aids in developing comprehensive approaches to mental health care that are sensitive to cultural differences, ultimately enhancing intervention efficacy in diverse populations.

32) Carin (Cari):
Cari might refer to the researcher or body of work focused on disaster-related psychological responses. Understanding their findings can inform mental health strategies and public health responses to mitigate the risk of suicide, ensuring vulnerable populations receive sufficient support in the aftermath of traumatic events.

33) Sign:
Sign refers to indicators or symptoms related to mental health issues that can arise following natural disasters. Recognizing such signs is crucial for timely interventions. Effective early detection strategies can significantly reduce the likelihood of substantial psychological distress and subsequently mitigate suicide risks in affected communities.

34) Hand:
Hand represents assistance or support provided to individuals experiencing mental health crises. Post-disaster contexts emphasize the need for community and institutional 'hand' in terms of resources and emotional support to facilitate recovery, reduce suffering, and prevent suicidal behavior among survivors.

35) Drug:
Drugs, in this context, encompass both substances used for medicinal purposes and those abused recreationally. Post-disaster environments may see increased substance abuse as survivors cope with trauma, leading to higher suicide rates. Understanding drug use patterns is vital in shaping effective prevention and treatment strategies for mental health.

36) Reliability:
Reliability reflects the consistency and dependability of data within research studies. In the context of this systematic review, ensuring reliable evidence regarding psychological impacts of natural disasters is fundamental for drawing accurate conclusions that can inform supportive measures for at-risk populations, particularly concerning increased suicidality.

37) Discussion:
Discussion sections in research articles synthesize findings, contextualizing results within broader literature. They allow researchers to explore implications, limitations, and future research directions related to suicide risk post-disaster. Engaging in discussions enhances collaborative understanding, guiding mental health initiatives tailored for disaster-affected individuals.

38) Collecting:
Collecting refers to the process of gathering data for research purposes. In systematic reviews, this involves systematically identifying, appraising, and synthesizing relevant studies. Effective collecting ensures comprehensive assessments, allowing researchers to draw conclusions about risk factors associated with suicide following natural disasters, thereby informing guidelines for intervention.

39) Knowledge:
Knowledge relates to the understanding and insights gained from research related to mental health impacts of disasters. Accumulating knowledge aids in identifying risk factors, guiding mental health programs, and improving resilience strategies for affected populations. Informed decisions are vital to effectively address the psychological needs emerging from disasters.

40) Substance:
Substance refers primarily to drugs, both legal and illegal, which may become a coping mechanism for individuals facing trauma post-disaster. Monitoring substance use patterns is crucial, as they can be indicative of underlying mental health issues, potentially leading to increased suicide risk. Addressing substance issues is essential for recovery.

41) Suffering:
Suffering indicates the psychological and emotional pain individuals endure after disasters. Recognizing and addressing suffering is crucial in mental health interventions aimed at disaster survivors. By alleviating suffering through targeted support and resources, it is possible to reduce suicide risks and promote healing in affected communities.

42) Reason:
Reason pertains to the underlying factors that contribute to behaviors, including suicidal ideation. Identifying reasons for increased suicide risk post-disaster is essential for developing meaningful interventions. Addressing these reasons serves as a foundation for resilience-building strategies and comprehensive mental health programs to support vulnerable individuals.

43) Debate:
Debate refers to ongoing discussions concerning the complexities of mental health issues following disasters, specifically the factors that influence suicide rates. Engaging in debate stimulates critical thinking, allowing researchers to refine their understanding of the relationship between disasters and psychological outcomes, ultimately promoting evidence-based interventions.

44) Police:
Police involvement is often necessary in disaster situations for maintaining order and providing emergency responses. Additionally, they may play a role in addressing the aftermath of disasters, including suicides. Collaborating with mental health professionals can enhance support systems and reduce stigmas surrounding mental health issues within communities post-disaster.

45) Killing (Killed):
Killed refers to deaths that may result from natural disasters and the subsequent impact on survivor psychology. The loss of life can contribute to trauma and grief, significantly increasing suicide risks among survivors. Acknowledging the reality of the killed is crucial for understanding the broader mental health implications following tragedies.

46) Storm:
Storms represent one type of natural disaster with potential catastrophic effects on mental health. The trauma caused by storms can lead to psychological disorders, exacerbating suicidal behaviors. Understanding storm-related impacts is important for creating effective mental health frameworks and interventions for affected populations working towards resilience and recovery.

47) Pir:
Peer denotes the importance of social networks in influencing mental health. In disaster contexts, peer support systems can be vital for fostering recovery and reducing feelings of isolation. Encouraging peer connections can strengthen resilience and provide essential emotional support critical for lowering suicide risks among survivors.

48) Pur:
Poor signifies socioeconomic conditions that can exacerbate vulnerabilities in disaster-affected individuals. Economic challenges often impede access to mental health resources and support, increasing the likelihood of adverse psychological outcomes. Addressing the needs of impoverished populations post-disaster is vital for preventing an increase in suicide rates.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Risk Factors for Suicide Post-Natural Disasters: A Systematic Review’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Family, Mental health, Mental disorder, Depression, Physical illness, Adolescent, Mortality, Daily activities, Public health, Data collection, Psychological effect, Present study, Elderly, Social interaction, Male gender, Young people, Poverty, Economic status, Economic condition, Quality of life, Gender, Geographical distribution, Psychological problem, Peer-reviewed journal, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Psychological factor, Economic problem, Addiction, Psychological health, Developing countries, Inclusion criteria, Exclusion criteria, Depression symptoms, Social Support, Study design, Psychophysiological disorders, Sampling method, Systematic Review, Mortality Rate, Personality disorders, Psychiatric morbidity, Risk factor, Human Health, Research question, Psychiatric comorbidity, Psychiatric disorder, Anxiety depression, Economic aspect, Academic stress, Female gender, Coping strategies, Search strategy, Risk of suicide, Drug abuse, Suicidal behavior, Suicidal ideation, Sexual orientation, Vulnerable group, Natural disaster, Psychosocial support, Alcohol dependence, Digestive problem, Strong correlation, Cultural condition, Psychosocial intervention, Adequate nutrition, Coping Mechanism, Neuroticism, Family member, Suicide risk factors, Mental Health Resources, Health effect, Economic damage, Mental health interventions, Current trend, Suicide Risk, Sexual problem, Suicide attempt, Technical help, Peer reviewed journal articles, Affected Groups.

Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

English language, Earthquake, Loss of relatives, Hurricane, Disaster, Suicide, Attempted suicide, Safe shelter, Post-traumatic stress, Disaster victims, Lower education, Loss of family, Adaptive capacity, Suicidal behaviour, External assistance, Suicide prevention, Family expenses, Medical illness, Separate factor.

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