Abstract:
Background: Suicidal ideation and attempts among adolescents constitute a significant public health challenge globally, with varying prevalence rates influenced by socio-cultural, economic, and psychological factors. In Pakistan, where mental health awareness is limited, understanding the determinants of these phenomena is crucial. This study aims to assess the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among adolescents in both public and private schools in Jhang, exploring associated factors such as socioeconomic status, academic pressure, and familial relationships.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Jhang, Pakistan, targeting adolescents aged 12 to 18 years enrolled in both public and private schools. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to ensure a representative sample, with schools selected randomly from each sector. The final sample size was determined to be 384 students, calculated using the following statistical parameters: a 5% margin of error (e), a 95% level of confidence (z), a prevalence (p) of suicidal ideation estimated at 50%, and a 10% non-response rate. Data was collected using an adapted version of Columbia severity rating scale that assessed suicidal ideation and attempts, alongside potential associated determinants such as socio-economic status, and familial factors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics to determine prevalence rates and chi square test to identify significant associations between variables. p values less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant .Ethical approval was obtained from relevant authorities, and informed consent was secured from participants and their guardian
Results: Most of the respondents were male 236 (61.30%), having urban residence 300 (77.92%). The findings from the current study revealed a 25 % lifetime prevalence of suicidal ideation while 22 % of adolescents were involved in suicidal behavior during their lifetime. 17 (4.42%) of the participants were involved in actual attempts in a lifetime while 7 (1.82%) in past three months. Family history of suicide attempts with and without death, substance abuse, and use of social media were significantly associated with suicidal ideation and behavior.
Conclusion: A 25% lifetime prevalence of suicidal ideation and 22 % of suicidal behavior is alarming and critical. Government, semi-government non- government concerned departments should design strategies to minimize risk.
Biography:
Sadia Bibi, MSPH, is a Public Health Specialist from the Armed Forces Postgraduate Medical Institute (AFPGMI), NUMS, a Zoologist and Entomologist at the District Health Authority, Rawalpindi, and a medical researcher serving as the first and corresponding author of an article published in BMC Psychiatry. She presented her published work in an annual conference of Khyber Medical University and was awarded with 3rd position in poster presentation among all participants of postgraduate level. She focuses on advancing public health research and vector-borne disease management, driven by her commitment to improving population health through evidence-based interventions, combining her expertise in zoology, entomology, and clinical research to provide a multidisciplinary approach. She has worked as a research assistant in different clinical researches including WHO and UNICEFF study on Pneumonia case management under 5.She is also working as an Assistant Dermatologist of a FCPS Dermatologist. She is a self student and working hard to achieve her study goals. Her long-term goal is to strengthen public health research, epidemiology, and clinical practice integration. Skilled in leadership, mentoring, communication, and problem-solving, Sadia also enjoys.
Copyright 2024 Mathews International LLC All Rights Reserved
