Study Suggests Younger Metal Fans Might Have Higher Self-Harm And Suicide Rates

Metal Injection reports that a new study from the Universities of Manchester and Liverpool has found that young rock and metal fans are five times more likely to attempt suicide or self-harm than people not involved in the subculture.

In the study, catchily titled This Corrosion: A Systematic Review of the Association between Alternative Subcultures and the Risk of Self‐Harm and Suicide, clinical psychologist Peter Taylor says that while people tend to assume that musical preferences and thoughts of self-harm aren't correlated, "the literature we reviewed does suggest that these individuals are indeed in greater danger."

"The belief that alternative subcultures may be at an increased risk of self-harm and suicide is considered by some to be a myth. But the literature we reviewed does suggest that these individuals are indeed in greater danger. However, this research requires interpretation within the wider context of public concern around alternative subcultures and their impact on the mental health of young people."

"We're not saying that doctors should be worrying about everyone wearing a Metallica t-shirt, but if there are also other signs which point towards self-harm, then they definitely ask the question."Many people become affiliated with these groups because they feel like they don't fit into society and so face a lot of vulnerabilities. But there also might be victimization and stigma associated with belonging to these subcultures."

The study found that 31% and 74% of heavy metal fans have reported suicidal thoughts, while non-fans come in between 14% and 35%.

But why, though? They don't know yet.

"There is not enough evidence to tell us why it is that people belonging to these subcultures are at greater risk. Young people who have faced more adversity may be more likely to become part of a subculture, but this does not seem to fully explain the increased risk. Stress associated with being different and belonging to a minority group may also explain some of the risk."

You can read the whole study here.

If you're struggling with any of the above, the folks over at Mind will help...

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