World Suicide Prevention Day: Bridging the Gap Between Suicide Prevention and Intimate Partner Violence
On World Suicide Prevention Day, we recognized that suicide and intimate partner violence are deeply interconnected public health crises.
On World Suicide Prevention Day, we shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked connection between suicide and intimate partner violence (IPV), two deeply interconnected public health crises. Survivors of intimate partner violence are twice as likely to attempt suicide multiple times, and murder-suicide most frequently occurs in the context of abuse. Despite this clear connection, the mental health and intimate partner violence sectors have historically worked in isolation.
At BWSS, we understand that addressing both intimate partner violence and suicide together is essential for breaking this cycle of harm. Since 2019, BWSS has been at the forefront of efforts to bridge these fields, mobilizing research and offering webinars, trainings, and other educational resources to professionals. Our goal is to ensure that those working in suicide prevention recognize the warning signs of intimate partner violence, and that those working with IPV survivors are equipped to identify suicide risk factors.
It is essential to understand why this matters:
Victims of domestic violence are up to three times more likely to attempt suicide.
Those who have experienced sexual abuse within a relationship are at an even higher risk of suicide and are up to 7 times more likely to have attempted to end their life.
Survivors of intimate partner violence are twice as likely to engage in multiple suicide attempts.
Nearly 65% of all murder-suicides involve an intimate partner, with many of these cases occurring in the context of ongoing abuse.
These statistics paint a devastating picture of the impact of intimate partner violence on mental health. Addressing both issues in tandem is vital for creating pathways to safety and healing. At BWSS, we remain committed to this work because safety changes everything. By breaking down the barriers between these fields, we can create a more integrated response, offering survivors the support they need to live safe lives.
Taking action to increase safety—because safety changes everything.
As an organization dedicated to ending violence in all its forms, BWSS stands in solidarity with victims and survivors. For resources on safety, accessing support, and taking action against gender-based violence, visit our website.
You are not alone.
If you or someone you love is in need of support, please contact the Battered Women Support Services Crisis Line:
Call toll-free: 1-855-687-1868
Metro Vancouver: 604-687-1867
Email: EndingViolence@bwss.org
