The Economic Cost of Suicide to Society - An Estimation of the Net Economic Cost of all Completed Suicides in Sweden in 2015

Abstract: The aim of this study is to estimate the net economic cost of all suicides that occurred in Sweden in 2015. The purpose is to provide a more thorough assessment of this cost compared to previous research. Based on the theoretical and methodological framework of so called Cost of Illness (COI) studies, previous research, as well as original solutions, this study estimates direct costs, indirect costs and potential savings from suicide. Summing the costs and subtracting the savings yields an estimated net economic cost of 2,90 – 3,17 billion SEK in total and an average of 2,46 – 2,69 million SEK per suicide. In addition, what are considered intangible costs of suicide in terms of life and health are analyzed in a theoretical, interdisciplinary framework, offering a brief exploration into a discussion that can and ought to be elaborated on extensively.