Suicidality and COVID‑19: Suicidal ideation, suicidal behaviors and completed suicides amidst the COVID‑19 pandemic (Review)

Since the outbreak of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic, there has been widespread concern that social isolation, financial stress, depression, limited or variable access to health care services and other pandemic‑related stressors may contribute to an increase in suicidal behaviors. In patients who have recovered from COVID‑19, an increased risk of developing suicidal behaviors may be noted, while post‑COVID syndrome comprises another potential risk factor contributing to increased suicidal behaviors. Despite the initial alarming predictions for an increase in suicide rates due to the COVID‑19 pandemic, the majority of published studies to date suggest that experienced difficulties and distress do not inevitably translate into an increased number of suicide‑related deaths, at least not in the short‑term. Nevertheless, the long‑term mental health effects of the COVID‑19 pandemic have yet to be unfolded and are likely to remain for a long period of time. Suicide prevention and measures aiming at promoting well‑being and mitigating the effects of COVID‑19 on mental health, particularly among vulnerable groups, should thus be a priority for healthcare professionals and policymakers amidst the evolving COVID‑19 pandemic.