Weather and suicide: Association between meteorological variables and suicidal behavior—a systematic qualitative review article

Abstract

Background: The effects of current and expected future climate change on mental health outcomes are of increasing concern. In this context, the importance of meteorological factors on suicidal behavior is receiving growing attention in research. Objective: Systematic review article with qualitative synthesis of the currently available literature, looking at the association between meteorological variables and attempted and completed suicide. Material and methods: Criteria-based, systematic literature search according to the PRISMA criteria. Peer-reviewed original research studies were included without time limits. Results and conclusion: A total of 99 studies were included and grouped according to the research analysis based on daily, weekly, monthly and annual data. The majority of the studies reported a statistical association with at least one meteorological variable. The most consistent positive correlation was shown between temperature and suicidal behavior. However, the results are not conclusive and in part contradictory. The reported studies differed distinctively in terms of study design. Meteorological parameters may be associated with suicidal behavior. Future research in this area is needed to provide further clarity. Despite existing knowledge gaps, the current findings may have implications for suicide prevention plans.