Suicide in deaf populations: a literature review

Studies have found that deaf individuals have higher rates of psychiatric disorder than those who are hearing, while at the same time encountering difficulties in accessing mental health services. These factors might increase the risk of suicide. However, the burden of suicidal behaviour in deaf people is currently unknown. This literature review was conducted to help establish the incidence and prevalence of suicidal behavior in deaf populations; describe risk factors for suicidal behavior in deaf populations; and describe approaches to intervention and suicide prevention that have been used in deaf populations.