A study by Korean medical researchers has confirmed that the speed and duration of economic growth ironically have an opposite effect on the suicide rate.

Inha University Hospital said Tuesday that a research team led by Professor Lee Dong-wook of its Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine and Professor Lee Na-mi of the Department of Human Systems at Seoul National University analyzed the relationship between economic growth and suicide rates for about 30 years from 1991 to 2021 based on data from 198 countries worldwide.

The study, published in the July issue of the international journal PLOS ONE, found that suicide rates tended to increase when the economy did not grow in the long term, especially in middle- and low-income countries.

In contrast, suicide rates among men in high-income countries tended to increase during short-term periods of rapid economic growth.

In addition to the commonly recognized link between economic downturns and suicide rates, the researchers showed that suicide rates may be higher among men in high-income countries during periods of short-term economic growth. The team explained that rapid economic growth can cause societal stress by disrupting existing social structures and role systems, leading to a state of “social anomie” where norms are disrupted.

“Economic growth is generally perceived as a positive change, but depending on its pace and duration, its impact on mental health can be quite the opposite,” Professor Lee said. “We need a way to strengthen social safety nets, including social welfare and mental health, so that no one is left behind and everyone can enjoy the benefits of growth together.”