[Suicide and nutrition: a bio-psychosocial approach]

Sante Ment Que. 2012 Autumn;37(2):65-94. doi: 10.7202/1014945ar.
[Article in French]

Abstract

This article proposes a new bio-psychosocial perspective on the links between mental health, more specifically suicide, and nutrition. We first discuss the links between nutrition, its social role and suicide. The act of eating is studied as a social integrator and regulator, in the light of Durkheim's theorization. Nutrition is also examined as self-destruction, with particular cases of "diet-related suicide." De-structuring of meals and alienating foods are identified as contributing factors to the de-structuring of "nutrition models." We then discuss the place of food within the psychopathology, and finally, the links between biological parameters reflected in food and suicide risk. Avenues of research and intervention along this bio-psychosocial approach are also proposed.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Diet*
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Humans
  • Suicide* / psychology