Suicide risk among rural youths, a public health concern – Voicing the unvoiced

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Published

2024-03-31

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56450/JEFI.2024.v2i01.004

Keywords:

Suicidal Behavior, Suicidal Ideation, Suicide, Suicide Attempts, Youths, Rural

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024): Journal of the Epidemiology Foundation of India

Section

Original Article

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Copyright (c) 2024 Dr. Manish RC, Dr. Renuka M, Dr. Kishor M, Dr. Rituparna Kundu

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

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Authors

  • Manish RC JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6054-8416
  • Renuka M JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka
  • Kishor M JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka
  • Rituparna Kundu JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka

Abstract

Background: Youth transition from dependence to independence with fluid boundaries, facing challenges like anxiety and peer pressure despite good health. Prior suicide attempts stand out as a significant risk factor, highlighting its importance in the broader population. Aim & Objectives: This study aimed to assess suicidal risk prevalence among rural youths in Southern Karnataka and identify associated risk factors. Methods: This study employed population proportionate sampling of 15-24-year-olds from four villages of Sutturu, a rural field practice area of JSS Medical College, Mysuru for six months. Socio-demographic data were collected using a pre-tested proforma, while suicide risk was assessed via the SAFL app. Data analysis utilized IBM SPSS Version 25. Results: Of 239 participants, 35.2% were males and 64.8% females, with a majority aged 20-24. Notably, 41.2% of females attended school. Depression prevalence was high (65.2%), with 51% experiencing minimal depression, more so in males. Treatment-seeking for psychiatric issues was low, with varying suicide attempt rates. Conclusion: The study emphasizes significant associations between youth suicide risk and factors like prior attempts, family history, and psychiatric conditions, particularly among males aged 20-24. Lower educational attainment also correlates with increased risk, highlighting the multifaceted nature of this issue.

How to Cite

RC, M. ., M, R. ., M, K. ., & Kundu, R. . (2024). Suicide risk among rural youths, a public health concern – Voicing the unvoiced. Journal of the Epidemiology Foundation of India, 2(1), 13–19. https://doi.org/10.56450/JEFI.2024.v2i01.004

Author Biographies

Manish RC, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka

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Renuka M, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka

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Kishor M, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka

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Rituparna Kundu, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka

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