Article type
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted global mental health, with potential implications for suicidal behaviors. Understanding these patterns is essential for developing effective interventions and management strategies.
Objective: The aim of this study is to offer a global overview of suicidal behavior and its risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: A scoping review of literature from 2019 to November 29, 2023, was conducted using databases like Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Academic. Search terms included 'Coronavirus,' 'COVID-19,' 'suicidal behaviour,' 'self-harm,' and 'self-injurious behaviour.' The study involved four researchers independently assessing and synthesizing the data through tables, charts, and discussions.
Results: Of the reviewed studies, 286 met the inclusion criteria. High rates of suicidal behavior were noted in the Americas, Europe, and the Western Pacific Region, with significant contributions from China and Spain. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was the predominant tool for assessing suicidal behavior and risk. Key risk factors identified were demographic (including gender, age, marital status, education level, employment status, income), mental health conditions, and COVID-19 positivity.
Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of suicidal behaviors and risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic across six WHO regions. The findings highlight the need for targeted preventive measures and effective mental health management during and beyond the pandemic, emphasizing the role of demographic factors, mental health status, and COVID-19 impact in suicidal behaviors.
Objective: The aim of this study is to offer a global overview of suicidal behavior and its risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: A scoping review of literature from 2019 to November 29, 2023, was conducted using databases like Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Academic. Search terms included 'Coronavirus,' 'COVID-19,' 'suicidal behaviour,' 'self-harm,' and 'self-injurious behaviour.' The study involved four researchers independently assessing and synthesizing the data through tables, charts, and discussions.
Results: Of the reviewed studies, 286 met the inclusion criteria. High rates of suicidal behavior were noted in the Americas, Europe, and the Western Pacific Region, with significant contributions from China and Spain. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was the predominant tool for assessing suicidal behavior and risk. Key risk factors identified were demographic (including gender, age, marital status, education level, employment status, income), mental health conditions, and COVID-19 positivity.
Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of suicidal behaviors and risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic across six WHO regions. The findings highlight the need for targeted preventive measures and effective mental health management during and beyond the pandemic, emphasizing the role of demographic factors, mental health status, and COVID-19 impact in suicidal behaviors.