JAMA Netw Open

Living alone with depression or anxiety linked to higher suicide risk

April 7, 2025

Study details: This population-based cohort study utilized data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database, including 3,764,279 adults aged ≥20 years who participated in the General Health Screening Program in Korea in 2009. The study period spanned from 2009 to 2021. Living arrangements were categorized as living alone (≥5 years) or living with others, and depression and anxiety were identified using ICD-10 codes. The primary outcome was death by suicide, analyzed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results: Individuals living alone with both depression and anxiety had a 558% increased risk of suicide (AHR, 6.58; 95% CI, 4.86-8.92) compared with those without these conditions. Living alone with depression alone was associated with a 290% increased risk (AHR, 3.91; 95% CI, 2.96-5.16), and living alone with anxiety alone was associated with a 90% increased risk (AHR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.48-2.43). The risk was particularly pronounced among middle-aged individuals (40-64 years) and men.

Clinical impact: Findings underscore the critical need for targeted suicide prevention strategies that address both mental health conditions and living arrangements. Prioritize comprehensive risk assessments and interventions for individuals living alone with depression or anxiety, with particular attention to middle-aged men, who are at heightened risk.

Source:

Moon DU, et al. (2025, March 3). JAMA Netw Open. Suicide Risk and Living Alone With Depression or Anxiety. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40136304/