Association between spousal suicide and mental, physical, and social health outcomes: A longitudinal and nationwide register-based study.

Does the suicide of a spouse affect the health of the surviving partner?

Findings  In this nationwide register-based cohort study, an increased risk of mental and physical disorders, mortality, and adverse social events were noted among people bereaved by spousal suicide. Bereavement by suicide differed from bereavement by other manners of death.

Meaning  Surviving partners are affected on a broad range of mental, physical, and social health outcomes, suggesting a need for more proactive outreach.