Mattering and Feelings of Not Mattering in Suicide Risk and Prevention: Conceptualization, Review, and Public Health Recommendations

This chapter examines the role of mattering in suicide risk and assessment with an emphasis on how mattering promotion can reduce vulnerability to suicide via prevention programs. The mattering construct and its facets are described. Next, the chapter includes a summary and review of research conducted primarily with adults that clearly documents the association between feelings of not mattering and suicidal tendencies. It is noted that this research is still in an early phase, and there is an urgent need for additional research. Mattering and suicidality are then examined from a conceptual perspective. A central theme proposed in this chapter is that there is an unbearable form of psychological pain in vulnerable people of various ages that includes or stems from an abject feeling of not mattering to anyone. It is vital to assess feelings of not mattering as part of clinical assessments and proactively address this feeling, especially when it fuels psychological pain and feelings of social hopelessness. Programs built around the theme of “You Matter” are an important first step, but there is a need for much broader and sustained public mental health campaigns and initiatives.