Protective Functions of Religious Traditions for Suicide Risk

It is generally accepted that religion typically acts as a protective factor against suicidal behavior. However, there remains some debate over the various mechanisms that underlie this relationship and how these mechanisms may function across different religious traditions. The purpose of this illustrative review is to expand on previous themes in the literature that have focused primarily on religious beliefs, to include consideration of religious practices that may serve to garner a protective social network. We consider religious beliefs, religious practices, and illustrative empirical support of relevance to core religious traditions including those practices that have their roots in Judeo/Christian (Jewish, Catholic and Protestant), Islamic, Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Implications for these findings are discussed and the value of further broadening the identification of potential mechanisms of relevance is considered.