Impact of social factors on suicide must be recognised

According to the World Health Organisation, more than 700,000 lives were lost to suicide in 2019, equating to 1,925 per day, or one every 45 seconds. The authors say tackling the social factors which contribute to suicide requires a policy re-set with a whole of government commitment to hold politicians and policy makers from all sectors accountable for decisions that may help or hinder suicide prevention efforts – a 'suicide prevention in all policies' approach. Examples of potential interventions to address social factors suggested by the Series include:• Economic policies to reduce poverty such as minimum wage legislation and income protection policies. Professor Hawton says: 'Many suicides are preventable and public health strategies generally have the biggest impacts on reducing population suicide rates. This Series highlights key areas where public health policies are needed and examples of their effective implementation.