How Many People Are Exposed to Suicide? Not Six

It has long been stated that six people are left behind following every suicide. Despite a lack of empirical evidence, this has been extensively cited for over 30 years. Using data from a random‐digit dial survey, a more accurate number of people exposed to each suicide is calculated. A sample of 1,...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Suicide & life-threatening behavior 2019-04, Vol.49 (2), p.529-534
Main Authors: Cerel, Julie, Brown, Margaret M., Maple, Myfanwy, Singleton, Michael, Venne, Judy, Moore, Melinda, Flaherty, Chris
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Grief
Psychology
Suicides & suicide attempts
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Summary:It has long been stated that six people are left behind following every suicide. Despite a lack of empirical evidence, this has been extensively cited for over 30 years. Using data from a random‐digit dial survey, a more accurate number of people exposed to each suicide is calculated. A sample of 1,736 adults included 812 lifetime suicide‐exposed respondents who reported age and number of exposures. Each suicide resulted in 135 people exposed (knew the person). Each suicide affects a large circle of people, who may be in need of clinician services or support following exposure.
ISSN:0363-0234
1943-278X
DOI:10.1111/sltb.12450