Poverty and suicidality

Poverty and suicidality

From Before You Kill Yourself: a suicide prevention podcast. by Leo Flowers

January 26, 2026 · 36 min · Episode 809

About this episode

This episode explores the impact of poverty on mental health and suicide risk, discussing various factors and coping strategies.

In this episode, we explore how poverty affects mental health and increases suicide risk, particularly through relative deprivation, structural barriers, and unclaimed government aid. We look at why poverty is more than a lack of money—it’s instability, stress, and social exclusion—and what coping strategies can help. Topics covered include: How relative income deprivation can heighten feelings of hopelessness Why being poor in America is often more expensive due to fines, fees, and penalties The $140 billion in unused government aid and barriers to accessing it Coping strategies that protect dignity, stability, and mental health Thrive With Leo Coaching :  If you want to reduce your psychological pain, regain your purpose and forge your own path, go to  www.thrivewithleo.com to begin your journey. If you or anyone you know is considering suicide or self-harm, or is anxious, depressed, upset, or needs to talk, there are people who want to help: In the US:  Crisis Text Line : Text CRISIS to 741741 for free, confidential crisis counseling.  The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline : 1-800-273-8255 or 988 The Trevor Project : 1-866-488-7386 Outside the US…

Topics covered

  • poverty
  • mental health
  • suicide risk
  • relative deprivation
  • structural barriers
  • government aid
  • coping strategies

Keywords

  • hopelessness
  • financial stress
  • social exclusion
  • government assistance

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Thrive With Leo Coaching

Places: America, US

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