Exploring the Link Between Feeling Alone and Suicidal Thoughts: A Comprehensive Overview.

What is it about?

In this review, we explored the connection between loneliness and suicidal behavior. We specifically investigated both actual loneliness (living alone) and subjective loneliness (feeling alone) to understand their relationship with suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts. Our scoping review involved searching the PubMed database for English-language publications from 2011 to 2021. Out of 421 articles initially identified, we evaluated 31 full texts and ultimately included 18 papers that provided quantitative insights into the link between loneliness and suicidal experiences. The review revealed that the association between loneliness and suicidal behavior is influenced by individual, social, and cultural factors. Factors such as co-existing mental illness, substance use disorders, and economic hardships were identified as important contributors to the likelihood of suicide. The results highlight the importance of considering a range of factors when examining the relationship between loneliness and suicidal behavior. In conclusion, our findings support a correlation between loneliness and suicide. Understanding this association could aid in identifying individuals at risk of suicidal behavior. We recommend that future research delve into the specific connection between loneliness and suicidal thoughts in individuals with different mental health disorders and personalities. This knowledge can contribute to targeted interventions and support for those at elevated risk of suicide.

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Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash

Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This review was crucial because it looked into the connection between feeling lonely and thoughts of suicide. Suicide is a big health issue, and we wanted to understand how loneliness, both the actual state of living alone and the feeling of being alone, is linked to suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts. We did a comprehensive review by searching through a database of articles published between 2011 and 2021. Out of many articles, we selected 18 that gave us specific data on how loneliness and suicidal experiences are related. What we found is that the link between loneliness and suicidal behavior is influenced by individual, social, and cultural factors. This means that it's not just about being alone, but also about how someone feels and the situations they're going through. Factors like having a mental illness, using substances, or facing financial difficulties also contribute to the risk of suicide. Understanding this connection is important because it helps us identify individuals who might be at risk of suicidal behavior. By knowing more about how loneliness plays a role, we can develop better ways to support and help those who are more likely to experience these thoughts and actions. We suggest that future research should focus on understanding how loneliness is related to suicidal thoughts in people with different mental health conditions and personalities, so we can provide more targeted help.