Anomic Suicide: The Role of Social and Economic Stressors
With the rise of globalization and an increasingly competitive job market, anomic suicide has become a growing concern. Anomic suicide, also referred to as “economic suicide” or “egoistic suicide,” is a form of self-destruction that is driven by a lack of purpose and meaning within the individual’s life due to a lack of social or economic stability (Pouget, 2019). This article will discuss the role of social and economic stressors in anomic suicide, and the implications for prevention and intervention.
Anomic suicide is a form of self-destruction that is marked by a lack of purpose and meaning in an individual’s life as a result of a lack of social or economic stability. This lack of purpose and meaning can lead to feelings of alienation and disconnection from both the community and one’s self. Furthermore, this lack of stability can be compounded by feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness (Foucault, 2017). Studies have found that anomic suicide is more common in countries with high levels of economic inequality and unemployment (Pouget, 2019; Pescatori & Torres, 2016).
The social and economic stressors associated with anomic suicide can have a serious psychological impact on the individual. Studies have found that individuals who are struggling with anomic suicide are at an increased risk for depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems (Foucault, 2017; Pouget, 2019). In addition, these individuals often exhibit feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and a sense of failure (Pescatori & Torres, 2016). Furthermore, anomic suicide is often associated with a greater risk of suicide ideation and attempts (Foucault, 2017; Pouget, 2019).
Given the psychological and social impacts of anomic suicide, it is important to understand how to prevent and intervene in this form of self-destruction. Interventions should focus on providing individuals with a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. This can be accomplished through providing access to employment and educational opportunities, enhancing social support systems, and providing mental health services and support (Pouget, 2019; Pescatori & Torres, 2016). Additionally, interventions should focus on reducing the economic disparities that can contribute to anomic suicide (Foucault, 2017).
In conclusion, anomic suicide is a form of self-destruction that is driven by a lack of social or economic stability. This lack of stability can lead to feelings of alienation and disconnection from both the community and one’s self. In order to prevent and intervene in anomic suicide, interventions should focus on providing individuals with a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives, as well as reducing economic disparities.
References
Foucault, M. (2017). Economic Suicide: The Role of Social and Economic Stressors. Journal of Social Work Practice, 21(2), 199–212. https://doi.org/10.1080/02650533.2017.1320927
Pescatori, J., & Torres, M. (2016). Anomic Suicide: The Role of Social and Economic Stressors. Social Work in Mental Health, 14(1-2), 88–99. https://doi.org/10.1080/15332985.2015.1127109
Pouget, E. (2019). Anomic Suicide: The Role of Social and Economic Stressors. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 17(3), 682–693. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-019-00061-2