Factors associated with suicidal ideation in college students of Health Sciences

Abstract

Suicide is the leading cause of death in people between 15 and 29 years of age, and its increase is worrying. Compared to other disciplines, university students of Health Sciences present a higher risk of suicidal ideation. The aim of this research was to identify which factors are associated with suicidal ideation in these students. A total of 412 university students from different Health Sciences specialties participated. The results indicate that higher levels of self-esteem, resilience, and perceived efficacy are associated with less suicidal ideation, while presenting more exhaustion, cynicism, stress, anxiety, and depression is related to a higher frequency of suicidal thoughts. Not seeking information about suicide and being in the first or second year were associated with more suicidal ideation. Not consuming alcohol or having close experiences of suicide was associated with less suicidal ideation. The profile of the university student with more suicidal ideation is one with high scores in depression and anxiety, and low scores in self-esteem. It is expected that these data can be considered in future suicide prevention programs.