The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide

The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide suggests that people are more likely to consider suicide when they experience two key feelings: a sense of being burdensome to others and a lack of belonging or connection. When someone feels they don't belong and believe they are a burden, these feelings can create intense pain and hopelessness. However, these thoughts alone usually aren’t enough to lead to suicide; the person also needs to develop the capability to act on these feelings, often through increased exposure to painful experiences or fearlessness about pain. This combination of perceived burdensomeness, social disconnection, and acquired capability increases suicide risk.