Natural disasters and suicide: An evidence gap map

Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, storms, wildfires, and floods, can have profound psychological impacts on affected populations, leading to increased rates of mental health issues, including suicidality. The stress and trauma associated with the immediate destruction, loss of life, and long-term socioeconomic disruptions can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions or trigger new ones. Research has suggested a potential link between the experience of natural disasters and an increase in suicidal ideation, attempts, and completed suicides, making it a critical area of concern for public health and mental health services.

The extent and nature of this relationship, however, remain largely unknown, with varying findings found across different disasters and populations. To fully understand and address the mental health impacts of natural disasters, it is essential to map the existing research comprehensively.

The purpose of this project, funding by the Metro South Research Support Scheme (RSS_2020_054) aimed to create an evidence gap map to visually identify where knowledge is lacking, and where research is saturated, guiding future research efforts, and ensuring that interventions are effectively targeted to mitigate the risk of suicidality in disaster-affected populations.