Social Determinants and Gender Dynamics in Suicide: Moving Toward Population-Level Solutions

Suicide remains one of the most pressing yet complex public health challenges of our time. While the global conversation on mental health is expanding, the "gender paradox" in suicide—where women often report higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts, while men typically account for a higher proportion of suicide deaths—remains a critical area of investigation. Understanding these differences requires moving beyond gender-neutral perspectives to examine how biological, psychological, social, and structural forces uniquely shape the suicidal process for individuals across the gender spectrum.The burden of suicidality is not felt equally, nor is it expressed in the same way. Gendered expectations, socio-cultural norms, and systemic inequalities influence everything from the methods chosen and the lethality of attempts to help-seeking behaviors and the effectiveness of clinical interventions. For women, factors such as gender-based violence, reproductive health milestones, and economic inequality play a profound role. For men, pressures related to traditional masculinity, social isolation, and barriers to emotional expression often exacerbate risk. Despite these clear distinctions, research that critically compares these gendered pathways remains fragmented.This Research Topic invites scholars, clinicians, and social scientists to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of gender differences in suicide. We seek submissions that move beyond simple epidemiological comparisons to engage seriously with the gendered social and structural determinants that shape mental health outcomes. We are particularly interested in research that explores why these disparities exist and how prevention strategies can be better tailored to address the specific needs of different genders.We encourage contributions from a variety of disciplines—including psychiatry, psychology, sociology, public health, and gender studies—and we especially welcome research from low- and middle-income countries, where gendered roles and socio-economic pressures may present unique challenges.This Research Topic seeks submissions across the following themes:-Epidemiological Trends: Comparative analyses of prevalence, methods, and trends in suicidal behavior across genders.-The Gender Paradox: Investigating the gap between suicidal ideation, non-fatal attempts, and completed suicide.-Socio-Cultural Determinants: The role of gender norms, "toxic masculinity," and feminine societal expectations in shaping risk and resilience.-Life-Course Perspectives: How gender differences manifest at different stages, including adolescence, the perinatal period, and older age.-Trauma and Violence: The impact of gender-based violence and interpersonal trauma on suicidal trajectories.-Help-Seeking and Barriers: Gendered differences in mental health service utilization, stigma, and access to care.-Lived Experience and Intersectionality: How gender intersects with race, sexual orientation, disability, and economic status to influence suicidality.-Tailored Interventions: Evaluation of prevention programs and policies designed to address gender-specific vulnerabilities.By bringing together diverse perspectives and rigorous evidence, this Research Topic aims to advance the global conversation on suicide prevention. We seek to challenge "one-size-fits-all" approaches and contribute to a more equitable, evidence-based framework for saving lives across all gender identities. Topic editors: Russell Kabir, Mubarick Nungbaso Asumah Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79636/social-determinants-and-gender-dynamics-in-suicide-moving-toward-population-level-solutions