Are Suicide Attempts Contagious in Young People?

A new study suggests that being exposed to a suicide attempt within one's social network may increase the likelihood of subsequent suicide attempts in teenagers and young adults. Researchers from the University of New Hampshire and Rutgers University found that individuals aged 13 to 22 who had no prior suicide attempt were 2.78 times more likely to experience a subsequent attempt if they were exposed to a suicide attempt in their social network (95% confidence interval 1.78-4.33, P < 0.001).

This association remained significant even after adjusting for depressive symptoms (OR 2.43, 95% CI 1.51-3.91, P < 0.001).

The study, published in JAMA Network Open, adds to growing evidence that suicide is influenced by social contagion. Mental health experts emphasize that adolescence and young adulthood are particularly vulnerable periods when peers and social networks play a significant role. However, much of previous research on suicide contagion has been cross-sectional or predates today's digital social environment.

The researchers found that exposure to a suicide attempt within a young person's social network was not linked to suicidal ideation onset, but was associated with higher depressive symptoms over time. Distinguishing between suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts was crucial, as the study suggests that exposure may be more relevant to the progression from vulnerability to suicidal behavior.

The findings have implications for both clinical practice and postvention efforts. Clinicians may benefit from considering recent exposures within a patient's social network during risk assessments. Additionally, proactive outreach, screening, and access to support in schools and other youth-serving settings could help identify young people who need additional assistance.