Understanding Suicide Rates in High-Risk Professions

Suicide is a complex and deeply personal issue, and it doesn’t affect all professions equally. Research shows that some occupations carry significantly higher risks than others, particularly among men. Understanding these patterns isn’t about blaming workplaces or individuals. It’s about recognising how work-related pressures, cultural expectations, and access to support can influence mental health outcomes (Sax Institute, 2025; Monash University, 2020).

For many people, work is not just a source of income. It provides identity, purpose, and social connection. When a profession involves high stress, long hours, trauma exposure, or isolation, the balance can tip, increasing vulnerability to mental health challenges and, tragically, suicide. Factors such as workplace culture, job insecurity, financial pressure, and even access to means all interact in complex ways, meaning that some jobs pose unique mental health risks (Find an Expert, 2023; Rural Health, 2021).

It’s important to remember that these statistics reflect risk patterns, not inevitability. With timely support, safe work environments, and access to mental health resources, the risks can be mitigated. By raising awareness and understanding the pressures specific to certain professions, we can help prevent suicide and foster healthier workplaces for everyone.

Which Professions Are Most Affected?

Some occupations are associated with significantly higher suicide rates. Key groups include:

• Construction workers: Lower-skilled roles, such as machinists and labourers, have nearly double the risk of suicide compared to other occupations (Sax Institute, 2025; Find an Expert, 2023).
• Farmers: Rural isolation, financial stress, and limited access to mental health services contribute to higher suicide rates (Rural Health, 2021).
• Emergency services: Ambulance officers, paramedics, and firefighters face repeated trauma and high-pressure situations (Monash University, 2020).
• Veterinarians: The emotional toll of euthanising animals and managing distressed clients increases risk (Griffith University, 2025).
• Transport industry workers: Long hours, irregular schedules, and workplace isolation contribute to mental health challenges (Monash University, 2020).
• Artists and entertainers: Job insecurity, financial instability, and public scrutiny impact wellbeing (Monash University, 2020).
• Healthcare professionals: Female doctors and male nurses show higher suicide rates compared to the general population (Monash University, 2020).

Why Are These Professions at Higher Risk?

Several factors contribute to elevated suicide risk:

• Workplace culture: In some professions, a “tough it out” mentality discourages help-seeking and emotional disclosure (Find an Expert, 2023).
• Exposure to trauma: Repeated exposure to life-or-death situations or distressing events increases emotional strain (Rural Health, 2021).
• Long hours and irregular schedules: Fatigue, stress, and social isolation can exacerbate mental health challenges (Monash University, 2020).
• Access to means: Certain professions provide easier access to lethal methods (CDC, 2023).
• Financial stress: Economic pressures, job insecurity, and underemployment can contribute to feelings of hopelessness (Sydney University, 2023).

What Can Be Done?

Although these statistics are concerning, workplace and individual strategies can help reduce risk:

• Promote mental health awareness: Open conversations reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking.
• Provide access to support services: Ensure employees have counselling, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and crisis helplines.
• Implement wellness programs: Encourage work-life balance, stress management, and overall wellbeing.
• Encourage peer support: Create a culture where colleagues look out for one another.
• Train managers: Equip leaders to identify distress and provide appropriate support.

If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling

If you work in a high-risk profession and are feeling overwhelmed, or if you’re concerned about a colleague, know that help is available:

• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

At the 11th hour clinic, our psychologists understand the unique challenges faced in high-risk professions. We can help develop coping strategies, build resilience, and support mental health and wellbeing.

👉 Book your first appointment today

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Suicide death rates in the United States.https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7250a2.htm

Find an Expert. (2023). What’s behind the high rate of suicide in Australia’s construction industry? University of Melbourne. https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/news/131143-what%E2%80%99s-behind-the-high-rate-of-suicide-in-australia%E2%80%99s-construction-industry%3F

Griffith University. (2025, August 26). Study probes why Australian veterinarians are at nearly double the risk of suicide.https://news.griffith.edu.au/2025/08/26/study-probes-why-australian-veterinarians-are-at-nearly-double-the-risk-of-suicide/

Monash University. (2020). Occupations with greater risk of suicide.https://www.monash.edu/medicine/news/latest/2020-articles/monash-university-report-identifies-occupations-with-greater-risk-of-suicide

National Rural Health Alliance. (2021). Suicide in rural and remote Australia.https://www.ruralhealth.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/nrha-rural-suicide-factsheet-july2021.pdf

Sax Institute. (2025). The jobs that come with a higher suicide risk.https://www.saxinstitute.org.au/news/the-jobs-that-come-with-a-higher-suicide-risk/

Sydney University. (2023, July 13). Unemployment and underemployment as drivers of suicide.https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2023/07/13/unemployment-and-underemployment-significant-drivers-of-suicide-analysis.html