Study shows shame may increase suicidality among trauma survivors

It’s well known that people who have experienced trauma and developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at increased risk of suicide. As with all suicide risk factors, however, PTSD is one among many, and other factors can either increase or decrease the risk of dying by suicide. A recent study examined one of those additional factors: the role of shame in suicide risk among people with PTSD.

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition caused by being exposed to an extremely stressful or terrifying event, according to the Mayo Clinic. PTSD is perhaps best known as a condition that affects combat veterans, where it has historically been known by names such as “shell shock” and “war nerves.” However, PTSD can occur in people who have experienced any traumatic event, including but not limited to:

• Child abuse
• Sexual assault
• Violence
• Accidents, such as car crashes
• Natural disasters

Symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories—that is, flashbacks, reliving the traumatic event, or having nightmares about the event—as well as negative changes in thinking and mood, avoidance behavior, and physical and emotional reactions such as being easily startled or always on guard. People with PTSD are also at elevated risk of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts.

The study results

In the study, published in January 2025, researchers examined nearly 1,500 college students who had experienced at least one traumatic event. The study participants filled out questionnaires that assessed their PTSD symptoms, suicidal ideation, and degree of shame, including feelings of inferiority, helplessness, or vulnerability.

The results were striking. Students who experienced shame tended to have more severe PTSD symptoms, and they also tended to have higher suicidal ideation and suicide risk.

According to the authors, the study findings “highlight the need to continue suicide prevention efforts on university campuses, particularly among students experiencing PTSD symptomatology.” While this particular study focused on college students, it seems probable that people with PTSD in the general population are likewise more vulnerable to dying by suicide if they experience shame.

Shame, isolation, and suicidality

In large part, the link between shame and suicidality seems to be driven by isolation. People with PTSD may struggle to form and maintain healthy relationships and spend a great deal of time alone, ruminating on their thoughts. Numerous studies have shown that social isolation has a significant causal relationship with death by suicide and, conversely, that social support has a protective effect.

The study findings highlight the need for social connection, especially among people who have experienced trauma. Friends and relatives of people at risk of suicide need to prioritize staying connected to help reduce risk. They also need to know the warning signs and take appropriate prevention measures when necessary.

If you’ve lost a loved one to suicide completion, we can help

The study findings also highlight the special responsibility that falls on medical professionals who treat patients who have experienced trauma. Suicide screenings and similar steps need to be conducted, and doctors need to make appropriate referrals for mental health services. When those steps aren’t taken, lives can be lost. We fight for accountability.

If you have lost a loved one to suicide, we would be honored to listen to your story and explain your options. Our law firm is based in Texas but serves families throughout the United States. Contact the Law Offices of Skip Simpson for a free, confidential consultation.