Suicidal Ideation among Italian medical students: prevalence and associated factors from a multicenter study
Italian Med Students: suicidal ideation
Authors
Paolo Leombruni, Giuseppina Lo Moro, Fabrizio Bert, Roberta Siliquini
Abstract
Objectives. To estimate Suicidal Ideation (SI) prevalence among Italian medical students and explore associated factors.
Methods. Multicentre cross-sectional study (2018). Students were enrolled through convenience sampling (sample size=2513). Questionnaires included socio-demographic items and Beck Depression Inventory-II, which has an item on SI. A multivariable regression was performed (p-value<0.05 significant).
Results. SI prevalence was 13.7%. Among students with and without depression SI prevalence was 36.0% and 4.3%. Being female, being in a relationship, good/excellent family cohesion, perceived good economic status were significantly associated with lower SI. Increasing age, bisexual/asexual orientation, psychiatric family history, negative judgment
on medical school choice, competitive/hostile climate and unsatisfying friendships among classmates, being worried about not measuring up to the profession significantly increased SI.
Conclusion. There was a high SI prevalence among Italian medical students, consistently with worldwide data. Demographic, relational, and motivational factors seem to influence SI. Determinants should be further investigated to plan university-level interventions.
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