What does suicide contagion refer to?

Suicide contagion refers to the phenomenon where exposure to suicidal behaviors, either through personal connections or through media coverage, increases the likelihood that others, particularly those who are vulnerable, will also exhibit suicidal behaviors. This can occur within familial, social, or community circles where individuals may be influenced by the actions of someone they know or by stories of suicide in the media.

The concept highlights the importance of understanding how social dynamics and media portrayals can impact mental health, potentially leading to a copycat effect. Such exposure may normalize the behavior or create an environment where individuals feel it is a viable option to cope with distress. Recognizing this risk is essential for prevention efforts, emphasizing the need for responsible reporting and discussions around the topic of suicide to mitigate potential contagion effects.