Education and Suicide Relationship: The Role Of Income, Geography, and Cultural Dynamics

Abstract: Suicide is a major global public health concern and, according to World Health Organization data, is the second leading cause of death among youth aged 15–29. This literature review examines the complex and multidimensional relationship between educational attainment and suicide rates within the context of socioeconomic factors such as income, geographical inequalities, cultural dynamics, and unemployment. The literature suggests that education plays a protective role against suicide risk by strengthening psychological resilience, improving life skills, and facilitating access to health care services. However, when rising educational attainment increases expectations that are not met because of limited employment opportunities, income insecurity, and meritocracy-related problems, the resulting state of anomie may increase the risk of suicide. The study concludes that the relationship between education and suicide is not unidirectional but is shaped by economic instability and cultural pressures. Reducing suicide rates requires more than simply increasing educational attainment; it requires holistic intervention strategies supported by macroeconomic policies, employment-focused measures and psychological support systems. Keywords: educational attainment, suicide, socioeconomic factors, unemployment, public health, psychological resilience.