Exploring Sociodemographic Predictors of Suicide Ideation and Attempts: Insights from a Mental Health Emergency Hotline Data

Abstract

Background: Despite its classification as a pressing public health concern, suicide prevention has not garnered the necessary attention in Nigeria. An important step towards achieving this is to identify groups that are at risk.

Objective: This study examines the sociodemographic predictors of suicide ideation and attempts among callers of mental health emergency hotlines in Nigeria from March 2022 to September 2023.

Methods: The study combines retrospective cohort and cross-sectional research designs. Data were gathered from callers to the emergency hotline system, with information recorded in an Excel spreadsheet and subsequently exported to SPSS for analysis. The analysis involved a chi-square test and binary logistic regression.

Findings: Out of the 717 calls received, 512 were connected to mental health care. Out of these mental health-related calls, 43% reported suicide ideation, while 11.7% reported suicide attempts. The chi-square test showed an association between marital status and suicide ideation (χ2 = 9.990; p-value = .007) and between religious affiliation and suicide attempts (χ2 = 7.573; p-value = .006). However, the combination of sociodemographic variables like gender, age, marital status, religious affiliation, employment status and region of residence showed that age and marital status were predictors of suicide ideation. Specifically, those aged between 20 – 29 years (AOR = .530, p = .047), 30 – 39 (AOR = .036, p = .036) and 40 – 49 years (AOR = .391, p = .058) were less likely to think about suicide compared to those aged 19 and below. Compared to single people, those who are separated or divorced are less likely to think about suicide (AOR = .302, p = .001). Predictors of suicide attempts included marital status and religious affiliation. Specifically, those who are married are less likely to have attempted suicide compared to those who are single (AOR = .351, p = .024). Christians are less likely to have attempted suicide compared to those who identify as Muslims (AOR = .421, p = .004).

Conclusion: As authorities grapple with the public health challenge of suicide, this research calls for targeted interventions and support mechanisms to address the unique needs of at-risk populations.

Unique contribution:  This study has offered empirical evidence for understanding the contributing role of sociodemographic factors on suicide ideation and attempts. This information could be useful to health education experts who seek to plan campaigns to control suicide in developing countries like Nigeria.

Key recommendations: The study recommends more investment in suicide prevention in Nigeria, especially ones targeting vulnerable groups such as adolescents, singles and those who are unemployed. Furthermore, it suggests suicide prevention interventions should incorporate culturally sensitive spiritual or religious components to enhance their effectiveness.