The Prevalence of Suicidal Ideation in Adolescents and Associated Risk Factors: An Example from Turkey

Identifying risk factors is important in intervening in suicide, which is a preventable cause of death in adolescents. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of suicidal ideation and risk factors for suicidal thought in high school students aged 15-18 years. The data were obtained from questionnaire forms administered to 2438 high school students aged 15-18 years. Risk factors that might be associated with suicidal thought were identified using logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of suicidal ideation in adolescents in the last 12 months was 17.9%. Being female [OR 1.95, (CI 95% 1.47-2.59)], use of alcohol [OR 2.44, (CI 95% 1.63-3.68)] and addictive drugs [OR 1.78, (CI 95% 1.07-2.97)], being in physical fights [OR 1.76, (CI 95% 1.34-2.32)], having no close friends [OR 2.17, (CI 95% 1.34-3.52)], bullying(victimization) [OR 1.99, (CI 95% 1.43-2.77)], and other psychosocial distress were significant risk factors in the development of suicidal ideation. Solutions for decreasing risky behaviors for health, particularly the use of alcohol and addictive drugs, prevention of violence between peers, and strengthening of social relationships, must be developed.