Food insecurity as a risk factor for suicidal behavior among school-aged children (literature review)

Background. Suicide is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, particularly among young people. The United Nations and the World Health Organization (WHO) have identified reducing suicide-related mortality as one of the global targets for 2030. The relevance of this issue is linked to the impact of food insecurity (FI) on mental health. Studies indicate a correlation between FI and increased levels of stress, depression, suicidal ideation, and behavior, particularly among adolescents. Food insecurity during childhood can have long-term negative consequences, including social and academic difficulties as well as heightened risks of mental disorders. Investigating this issue is crucial for developing effective preventive measures. Purpose – of this study is to analyze existing research on the impact of food security on the mental health of schoolchildren, particularly in relation to suicidal behavior risks, and to identify prevention strategies and methods through improved food security. Materials and Methods. A systematic analysis of scientific publications was conducted using the databases PsycINFO, PubMed, SciELO, Embase, and Web of Science (2019–2024). The search employed terms characterizing FI (e.g., «food insecurity», «food scarcity», «involuntary hunger») in combination with suicidal behavior («suicidal ideation», «suicide attempts») among schoolchildren. The study utilized systematic literature review methods, content analysis, and an interdisciplinary approach for a comprehensive examination of the issue. Results. Research confirms a correlation between FI and suicidal behavior among schoolchildren across different countries. A review of the literature allowed for several generalizations. FI is recognized as both a biological and psychological stressor contributing to suicidal behavior in school-aged children and adolescents. FI has been identified as an independent risk factor for suicidal behavior (SB) among schoolchildren. FI is considered a modifiable risk factor for suicide. FI has only recently been included among the socio-demographic risk factors for adolescent suicide. The relationship between FI and other socio-demographic risk factors for SB in adolescents remains insufficiently studied. Understanding the cumulative impact of FI alongside other socio-demographic suicide risk factors in adolescents is crucial for advancing research in school-based suicidology. A high prevalence of SB is observed among schoolchildren experiencing food insecurity, hunger, or forced food deprivation. Food insecurity extends beyond physical hunger and encompasses challenges related to accessing food through socially acceptable means, limited dietary diversity, and anxiety about potential food shortages. The suicidal risks associated with food insecurity or its severe decline among schoolchildren remain inadequately explored. Existing studies employ heterogeneous methodologies, complicating the comparability of their results. Furthermore, no domestic studies on this issue have been conducted. Despite a declining trend in food security levels in Ukraine, research on potential medical and social risks-particularly suicide risks in school populations-has not been undertaken, hindering the development of scientifically grounded national security policies in this area. Conclusions. An analysis of existing research confirms that food insecurity is a significant risk factor for the mental health of schoolchildren, increasing the likelihood of suicidal ideation and behavior. Developing integrated suicide prevention strategies that consider socio-economic factors and food security is of paramount importance. Future research should focus on designing effective intervention programs for children and adolescents experiencing food insecurity.