The Hidden Toll: Demographic Changes in Suicide Attempts During the Coronavirus Disease-19 Era

Abstract

Introduction

The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, characterized by social isolation and economic disparity, has impacted mental health in the United States. While prior studies have linked the pandemic to increased rates of intentional penetrating trauma, the impact of self-inflicted injuries has not been thoroughly examined. We hypothesize an increased national rate of suicide attempts post-COVID-19 compared to previous years and aim to investigate shifts in demographics of trauma patients attempting suicide.

Methods

The Trauma Quality Improvement Program database was divided into prepandemic (2017-2019) and pandemic years (2020-2022). Bivariate analyses were performed.

Results

From 73,967 patients, those presenting in the COVID era had a statistically decreased rate of suicide attempts (1.3% versus 1.4%, P < 0.001) compared to prepandemic. Most suicide attempts occurred with knives in both groups (pandemic 50.9% versus prepandemic 50.2%, P = 0.06), who also had similar injury severity scores (median, 8). However, pandemic suicide attempts more commonly occurred in Blacks (13.3% versus 11.9%, P < 0.001), Hispanics (13.4% versus 12.0%, P < 0.001), young adults (age 20-39 y) (51.8% versus 49.9%, P < 0.001), and individuals with mental health disorders (50.6% versus 48.2%, P < 0.001). The mortality rate remained similar between cohorts (pandemic 19.8% versus prepandemic 19.5%, P = 0.26).

Conclusions

The pandemic was associated with a similar rate of suicide attempts among trauma patients but has led to a shift in demographics. Specifically, increased suicide attempts among Blacks, Hispanics, young adults, and those with mental health disorders. This highlights the pandemic's secondary impact and reinforces the need for targeted preventative measures for these populations during periods of increased stress.