MENTAL HEALTH STATUS AND SOCIAL DETERMINANTS AS PREDICTORS OF SUICIDAL BEHAVIOUR: IMPLICATIONS FOR FORENSIC NURSING PRACTICE - A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Author Name: Dr. Lego Shincy P. R, Mrs Kalpana Mohan, Senthil Kumar M, Nandwana Dimpalben Ramjibhai, Prof. Alphonsa Matthew, Dr Sheeja E

Volume: 04/01

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/06.2026-83125132/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. Associate Professor cum HOD of Community Health Nursing, St.Marys College of Nursing Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
2. Assistant Professor, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Nursing & Research, MMU Sadopur -Ambala, Haryana
3. Professor, St. John’s College of Nursing, Vellore -11, Tamil Nadu
4. Assistant Professor, R.B.Amin Nursing Institute, Vadodara, Gujarat
5. Principal, Uttaranchal (P.G) College of Bio-Medical Sciences & Hospital
6. Assistant Professor, CSI College of Nursing, Karakonam, Kerala, Trivandrum

ABSTRACT

Background Suicide is a major global public health concern, accounting for significant morbidity and mortality across all age groups. Suicidal behaviour is influenced by a complex interaction of psychological, biological, and social factors. Mental health disorders and adverse social determinants have been consistently identified as key contributors to suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and completed suicide. Forensic nurses frequently encounter individuals at risk for suicide in emergency, psychiatric, and medico-legal settings, making early identification and intervention crucial. Objective To review the evidence regarding mental health status and social determinants as predictors of suicidal behaviour and discuss implications for forensic nursing practice. Methods A narrative review of the literature was undertaken to explore the relationship between mental health conditions, social determinants, and suicidal behaviour. Relevant literature from nursing, psychiatric, public health, and forensic healthcare disciplines was examined and synthesized

Key words: Suicidal behaviour, mental health, social determinants, forensic nursing, suicide prevention, risk assessment, social isolation.