Psychosocial correlates of risk for suicidal ideation: the COVID-19 pandemic as a magnifying glass

Abstract

Objective The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on suicidal behavior are still the subject of studies. It is hypothesized that the pandemic may have contributed to the development of suicidal ideation by intensifying psychosocial risk factors. Our objective was to investigate such correlated factors in Brazil. Method The study used an online and cross-sectional survey encompassing 448 adult participants. Sociodemographic questionnaires and the Self-Reporting Questionnaire were used, and binary logistic regression was employed to identify predictors. Results The prevalence of suicidal ideation was 22.3%. The results indicate that people who self-identified as black and brown (OR = 2.42), who were part of the risk group for COVID-19 (OR = 2.41), and who reported more psychological symptoms (OR = 1.50) were more likely to have suicidal ideation. Conclusion Public policies to prevent suicidal behavior and promote mental health in the most vulnerable groups might be needed beyond the pandemic context, especially among the black population.