Suicidal ideation in adolescents aged 11 to 15 years: Prevalence and associated factors

Abstract

Objective: To verify the prevalence and associated factors of suicidal ideation among adolescents aged 11 to 15 years. Method: Cross-sectional population-based study. Adolescents completed a self-report that contained the Children's Depression Inventory. Suicidal ideation was measured according to item 9 of the Children's Depression Inventory. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was applied using a hierarchical model. Results: 1145 adolescents were invited to participate, and 1039 were interviewed (refusal rate: 9.26%). The prevalence of suicidal ideation was 14.1%. Factors associated to suicidal ideation: female gender, current alcohol consumption, use of illicit drugs, symptoms indicating conduct disorders and high Children's Depression Inventory scores for depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Prevention strategies should focus on female adolescents, especially those sexually active with probable mental health problems and substance use.