Suicidal ideation in adolescence--an indicator of actual risk?

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to assess both the frequency of suicidal ideation and also its link to other risk factors for suicidal behavior in the community population of adolescents.

METHOD

In the study, we have used a structured questionnaire for assessing the risk factors for suicidal behavior, and self-assessment scales for measuring depression and self-esteem. The research included 4,692 adolescents aged from 14 to 19 years. The sample is representative of the population of Slovene high school students.

RESULTS

The prevalence of suicidal ideation was 44% at anytime in respondent's life, and 10.3% during the recent month, and statistically significantly more frequent in girls than in boys. Suicidal ideation proved to be linked to high level of depression and low self-esteem, and also to the important psychosocial risk factors for suicidal behavior, such as: tendency to react on stress by consuming alcohol, alcohol and substance abuse, frequent conflicts with parents and frequently running away from home, pessimism about the future and self estimation of high probability of suicide in the future.

CONCLUSIONS

Suicidal ideation is an important suicide risk factor in adolescence, and requires adequate attention among all other relevant risk factors.