Why are Suicide Rates Higher in Men?
By Ambreen Nadeen
Suicide is 100% preventable, yet every year, more than 700,000 people die by suicide, which equates to one person every 40 seconds. Unfortunately, the suicide rate is more than twice as high among men than women, with men accounting for a significant majority of suicide deaths in many countries. However, studies consistently show that women are diagnosed with depression about twice as often as men, mainly because of a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. For instance, hormonal changes, societal expectations, and different ways of expressing and coping with emotions can all contribute to this higher prevalence of depression among women. Additionally, women might be more likely to seek help and receive a diagnosis, which could also play a role. This could explain why the number of registered instances is higher for women than men. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other sources, women are about 1.5 to 2 times more likely than men to attempt suicide. However, men are approximately 3.5 to 4 times more likely to die by suicide than women.
This higher fatality rate in men is often attributed to the use of more lethal methods. Male suicide methods are usually more violent, making them more likely to be completed before anyone can intervene.
Men often do not seek help, especially when they face mental health challenges; it's not that men don't experience the same challenges as women, it's that they are often less aware of the stresses or mental health issues that could increase their risk of suicide. Approximately 1 in 8 men have a common mental health problem such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), but only 1 in 3 of these men take medication or seek professional help. Sadly, stigma and traditional gender roles often prevent men from seeking help for mental health issues. Men often experience societal pressure to appear strong and self-reliant, which can hinder their willingness to seek support.
Another risk factor that can be linked to an increased number of suicides among men is family or work situations. For instance, during an economic downturn that leads to higher unemployment, there is often a subsequent increase in suicide rates, usually occurring 18 to 24 months after the downturn. Increased financial worries or the struggle to find a job can worsen mental health issues for anyone. Additionally, social pressure and identity crises can also play significant roles.
Whether a man or a woman, the feeling of hopelessness and sadness can hit anyone at any time. The feeling of loneliness is one of the major causes of suicide. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported in 2022 that social isolation affects millions globally, with higher prevalence in developed countries. The WHO emphasizes that social isolation has significant negative impacts on mental and physical health. A 2023 survey by the international polling organization YouGov found that approximately 33% of people worldwide reported feeling lonely at least some of the time.
It is important to note that suicide can happen to anyone at any time. Do not take it lightly. If you know someone who has a tendency to develop depression, make an effort to stay in touch with them.
Initiate a Conversation:
Suicide is not inevitable for anyone. By initiating conversations, offering support, and guiding individuals to the help they need, we can prevent suicides and save lives.
We all can take action:
The best thing you can do is listen to them and offer support. You just need to empathize with them.
Extend Hope, Not a Sermon on Life:
Avoid lecturing them about the value of life or arguing that suicide is wrong—they have already lost all hope for a better life. Instead, focus on offering practical help to address their issues.
Stay In-touch:
If you suspect someone might be having suicidal thoughts, avoid leaving them alone for extended periods.
Suicide is an extremely sensitive and complex issue with a myriad of intertwined causes, and the nature of suicide means we can never fully understand all the reasons behind it. However, what we do know is that if someone is prone to developing depression, being there for them and offering support is crucial. Providing consistent emotional support, understanding, and compassion can make a significant difference; it is one of the most effective ways we can help prevent such tragedies and potentially save lives.
By fostering a supportive environment and encouraging open conversations about mental health, we can offer hope and a lifeline to those who are struggling.
About The Author
Ambreen Nadeem
Ambreen Nadeem is the bestselling author, keynote speaker, psychologist, and founder of Psychology Talks. Her book "The Algorithm of Life" became the #1 Amazon Bestseller in 8 categories within 24 hours of its release.
She is passionate about helping people understand the importance of psychology in their daily lives. She is actively spreading awareness and helping people to deal with mental health issues through counseling, blogs, podcasts, and live shows. She is one of the Top 100 Global Thought Leaders.
Connect with Ambreen Nadeem on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and insights here.
