Predicting Non-suicidal Self-Injury and Suicidal Ideation Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Public Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicidal ideation (SI) pose significant mental health challenges globally, particularly among university students.
• Limited research exists on these behaviors in low- and middle-income countries, specifically Bangladesh, and how they differ between students with and without pre-existing mental illness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and risk factors of NSSI and SI among university students in Bangladesh.
• To conduct stratified analyses based on mental illness status (presence or absence of depression/anxiety symptoms) to understand differential predictors.
• To inform the development of targeted interventions for reducing self-harm and suicidal behaviors in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 1401 university students in Bangladesh.
• Data collected via self-administered questionnaires on socio-demographics and psychological factors.
• Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and logistic regression, with stratified analyses by mental illness status.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of NSSI was 21.4% and SI was 17.2%.
• Both NSSI and SI were more common in students with symptoms of depression or anxiety.
• Smoking, cyberbullying, and probable eating disorder symptoms were significant predictors for both NSSI and SI, regardless of mental illness status. Specific predictors varied between subgroups.

Conclusions:

• Interventions targeting modifiable risk factors such as smoking, cyberbullying, and eating disorders are crucial for reducing NSSI and SI among university students.
• Mental health status significantly influences the prevalence and risk factors of self-harming behaviors.
• Further research and tailored mental health support are needed in Bangladeshi university settings.