Philippe Courtet: “Hell is other people.” How social pressure shapes suicidal thoughts

Philippe Courtet is a distinguished figure in psychiatry and suicidology who has significantly contributed to the field. As an influential PU-PH (Professeur des Universités-Praticien Hospitalier), he is a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Montpellier, France, and head of Emergency Psychiatry at the University Hospital of Montpellier. Leading the Chair of Excellence in suicide prevention at the Fundamental Foundation and the ‘biomarkers, environment and neuropsychiatry’ research group at the National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, INSERM), Professor Courtet has focused on understanding the vulnerability to suicidal behaviour in mood disorders. His innovative work combines genomics, brain imaging, and social research. With over 500 peer-reviewed articles, an H-index of 82, and 27,000 citations, he stands as one of France's most productive psychiatrists and an international leader in suicidology. His role as Chair of the Suicidology and Suicide Prevention Section of the European Psychiatric Association further cements his influence in the field. Professor Courtet's groundbreaking research and dedication to improving care through the development of connected health tools for suicide risk assessment underscore his commitment to advancing treatment. We are pleased that Professor Courtet has participated in an exclusive Genomic Press Interview, which he entitled “ Hell is other people .1 ” How social pressure shapes suicidal thoughts , offering our readers unique insights into his life and vision for the future of psychiatry and suicide prevention.