Have Deaths of Despair Risen during the COVID-19 Pandemic? A Systematic Review
Publication Name
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Abstract
This systematic review synthesized literature on potential impacts of protracted isolation and other disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic on deaths of despair (suicide, overdoses, and drug-related liver diseases). Five electronic databases were searched yielding 70 eligible articles. Extant evidence mostly from high-income countries indicates COVID-19-related disruption may not have influenced suicide rates so far, but there have been reports of increased drug-related and liver disease mortality. Minority groups and women were more vulnerable, indicating the need for stronger equity focus on pandemic recovery and resilience strategies. Further high-quality studies with longer-term follow-up, especially from low-income countries, will inform these strategies.
Open Access Status
This publication may be available as open access
Volume
19
Issue
19
Article Number
12835
Funding Number
1140317
Funding Sponsor
National Health and Medical Research Council