How many people are exposed to suicide? Not six

Year: 2019 Source: Suicide and Life Threatening Behavior. (2019). 49(2), 529-534. The American Association of Suicidology. doi: 10.1111/sltb.125450 SIEC No: 20190340

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.

Table of Contents

Cerel, J., Brown, M.M., Maple, M., Singleton, M., van de Venne, J., Moore, M., & Flaherty, C.