According to the theory, the simultaneous presence of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness produce the desire for suicide.
[4] Belongingness—feeling accepted by others—is believed to be a fundamental need, something that is essential for an individual's psychological health and well-being.
[6] Additionally, "pulling together" (e.g., gathering for sporting events, celebrations) with others has been shown to have a preventive effect.
[1] Unemployment, medical or health problems, and incarceration are examples of situations in which a person may feel like they are a burden to others.
These experiences could include childhood trauma, witnessing a traumatic event, suffering from a severe illness, or engaging in self-harm behaviors.
For example, certain professions (e.g., soldiers, surgeons, and police officers) are exposed to physical pain or provocative experiences.
More specifically, soldiers with a history of combat have likely been exposed to grave injuries, witnessing the death of others, and are habituated to fear of painful experiences.