Social Determinants on Suicidal Thoughts among Young Adults

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Suicide is a leading cause of death for young adults in the U.S.
• Understanding social determinants of suicide is vital for prevention efforts.
• Previous research has not fully explored the intersection of poverty, religion, and suicidal ideation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between poverty, religion, and suicidal thoughts in U.S. youth.
• To assess disparities in suicidal thoughts based on gender, race, and ethnicity.
• To identify protective factors against suicidal ideation.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional correlational research design.
• National representative sample of 1945 young adults (aged 18-25) from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
• Logistic regression analysis with interaction effects to examine associations between poverty, religion, and suicidal thoughts.

Main Results:

• 43% of the sample reported suicidal thoughts.
• White males exhibited the highest prevalence of suicidal thoughts.
• Black males living up to two times the poverty line had increased odds of suicidal thoughts (p=0.011).
• Religion was found to be protective against suicidal thoughts (p=0.012).
• Lower education and poor health were associated with higher rates of suicidal thoughts.

Conclusions:

• Poverty and certain demographic factors are linked to increased suicidal thoughts among young adults.
• Religion may serve as a protective factor against suicidal ideation.
• Findings can inform public health strategies for evidence-based suicide prevention.