2008 economic crisis could be to blame for thousands of excess suicides worldwide

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-09/bmj-2ec091313.php

Public release date: 17-Sep-2013
Contact: Stephanie Burns
BMJ-British Medical Journal

Researchers say 'urgent action' is needed to prevent further deaths

In a paper published today on bmj.com, researchers are suggesting that the 2008 global economic crisis could be to blame for the increase in suicide rates in European and American countries, particularly among males and in countries with higher levels of job losses.

In 2008, the International Labour Organization estimated that the number of jobless worldwide would reach approximately 212 million by 2009, an increase of 34 million compared with 2007. The World Health Organization raised concerns of the crisis' impact on global health and called for action to monitor and protect health, in particular amongst the poor and vulnerable.

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