Suicide is a major public health issue, and research shows that certain occupations have higher suicide rates than others.

According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the suicide rate in the United States increased by 33% from 1999 to 2017, with the highest rates among men in the 45-54 age group.

Although suicide is a complex issue and can have many causes, including mental illness, substance abuse, and relationship problems, studies have shown that occupation can be a contributing factor.

In this article, we will look at some of the jobs with high suicide rates and explore the possible reasons behind them.

1. Physicians and Healthcare Workers

Healthcare workers, including physicians, nurses, and mental health professionals, have high rates of suicide.

According to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, male physicians have a suicide rate of 1.41 times higher than the general population, while female physicians have a rate 2.27 times higher. The study also revealed that younger physicians and those in training are at higher risk.

There are many reasons why healthcare workers may be more prone to suicide, including high levels of stress, long working hours, and exposure to trauma.

Many healthcare professionals also struggle with burnout, which is characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.

2. Construction Workers

Construction workers, particularly men, have a suicide rate that is three times higher than the national average.

The construction industry is known for its physical demands, long working hours, and high-pressure environment, which can all contribute to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Substance abuse is also common in this industry, which can exacerbate mental health problems.

3. Law Enforcement Officers

Law enforcement officers, including police officers and corrections officers, have a suicide rate that is higher than the national average.

The stressful and dangerous nature of the job, including exposure to violence, trauma, and long hours, can take a toll on mental health. Many officers also struggle with feelings of guilt and trauma related to their work, such as responding to scenes of domestic violence or accident scenes.

4. Lawyers

Lawyers have a high suicide rate, with studies showing that they are 3.6 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.

The high-stress environment of legal work, including long hours, heavy workloads, and exposure to trauma, can all contribute to poor mental health. Lawyers are also at high risk for substance abuse and are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety than other professions.

5. Military Personnel

Military personnel, particularly combat veterans, have a high rate of suicide. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, 22 veterans die by suicide every day.

The exposure to trauma, stress, and the strain on mental health that comes with serving in the military can all contribute to mental illness, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

6. Farmers and Agricultural Workers

Farmers and agricultural workers have a suicide rate that is higher than the national average. The physically demanding nature of the job, long working hours, and financial stressors can all contribute to poor mental health.

Many farmers also live in remote areas, which can make accessing mental health care more difficult.

7. Artists, Writers, and Entertainers

Artists, writers, and entertainers have a suicide rate that is higher than the national average. The creative nature of their work can be isolating and unpredictable, leading to financial stress and feelings of failure.

Substance abuse is also common in this industry, which can exacerbate mental health problems.

8. Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs have a suicide rate that is higher than the national average. The stress and uncertainty of starting and running a business can have a negative effect on mental health.

Entrepreneurs are also at high risk for burnout, which is characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.

9. Teachers

Teachers have a suicide rate that is higher than the national average. The high-stress environment of education, coupled with large class sizes, low pay, and limited autonomy, can all contribute to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

Teachers are also often exposed to trauma, such as witnessing violence or abuse.

Social workers have a suicide rate that is higher than the national average.

The high stress and emotionally demanding nature of the job, coupled with exposure to traumatic events such as child abuse and neglect, can all contribute to poor mental health. Social workers often struggle with burnout, which can lead to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.

Conclusion

Suicide is a complex issue, and many factors can contribute to it. However, research has shown that certain occupations have higher rates of suicide than others.

Healthcare workers, construction workers, law enforcement officers, lawyers, military personnel, farmers, artists and entertainers, entrepreneurs, teachers, and social workers all have higher rates of suicide than the general population.

It is important to raise awareness about suicide and its risk factors, as well as to provide resources and support for those struggling with it.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).