Predictors of Suicide Attempts and Reattempts in a Sample of Chilean Adolescents

Abstract

Background

Suicide is a public health problem worldwide, especially among adolescents. Chile is one of the Latin American countries with the highest suicide rates; however, few studies have investigated the risk factors for suicide attempts in this specific population. We aimed to describe the suicidal behaviour of Chilean adolescents and to explore the factors associated with suicide attempts and reattempts in this population.

Methods

Adolescents (10–19 years) with a diagnosis of psychiatric disorders were recruited in the Maule region, Chile, between 2018 and 2021. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were collected. Logistic regression was performed to explore the association between these variables and suicide attempts.

Results

Factors associated with increased odds of suicide attempts included age, sexual orientation, Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs) and past and current symptomatology. Factors that decreased the odds of suicide attempts were previous psychotherapy or pharmacological treatment, responsiveness and warmth from mother and father. Active symptoms at the time of assessment increased the odds of reattempting suicide.

Conclusions

In our sample, clinical and trauma-related factors emerged as the most important factors in predicting suicide attempts. Although age, sexual orientation and family dysfunction also played a notable role, positive relationships with parents seemed to be protective. In addition, current symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression significantly increased the likelihood of reattempts. These findings provide valuable knowledge about suicidality in Chile, although further research is needed to expand the evidence in our media.