Preditores de ideação suicida em pessoas com sofrimento psicológico durante os estágios iniciais da covid-19 no Brasil

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the main predictors of suicidal ideation (SI) and how they are related in individuals undergoing psychological distress (PD) manifested by depressive symptoms, during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Methods: The data was collected from Brazilian participants (n = 8,329) older than 15 years of age, between April and May 2020, via an online survey. Participants completed a questionnaire on sociodemographic information and use of psychoactive substances. Subsequently, depressive, anxiety and post-traumatic stress symptoms were assessed. We used logistic regression to identify significant predictors of SI among individuals under PD. Participants answered a questionnaire about sociodemographic information and psychoactive substance use. Subsequently, in addition to depressive symptoms, anxiety and post-traumatic stress symptoms were evaluated. We also conducted a regularized partial network analysis to further understand the relationship between these predictors. Results: The estimated prevalence of SI was 11.4%. Significant predictors were: younger age (15-24), being single, low monthly income, unemployment, identifying as LGBTQIA+, having a psychiatric disorder, anxiety symptoms, being exposed to domestic violence, and increased use of benzodiazepines during the pandemic. The only significant protective factor for SI was being a healthcare professional. Younger age, singlehood and unemployment were the strongest variables in the network analysis. There were also strong network associations between moderate to severe anxiety symptoms, increased consumption of benzodiazepines and having psychiatric disorders. Conclusion: Our study suggests that, in situations of PD, such as the early phase of COVID-19 pandemic, vulnerable populations should be identified and prioritized in terms of support and prevention for the risk of suicide. Recognizing these predictors and their associations with each other may help in understanding the effects of the pandemic on mental health and suicidal tendencies.