Residential mobility and suicide in Belgium

Abstract

Using Belgian administrative datasets (National Register, Census, and death certificates) on individuals aged 20–64 (N=7,246,740 individuals and 4,109 suicides), the study examined the association between mobility and suicide in the context of union transitions and different life stages. Using Cox proportional hazard models, we found that, in general, moving was associated with an increased risk of suicide than immobility, except for moves in the context of union transitions. Additionally, results highlighted that union dissolutions were associated with a higher risk of suicide – regardless of residential mobility. Moreover, mobility (compared to immobility) for individuals who were in stable situations (single or partnered) or who were in their mid-adulthood was associated with higher risks of suicide. Finally, middle-aged adults (aged 40–54) presented higher suicide risks in all cases of residential mobility, including if accompanied by union transitions.