Risk Factors for Suicide in University Students

Suicide is a global problem. The scientific and technological advances of modernity have changed the "meaning of life"; and lead to frustration, loss of values such as dignity, self-respect and respect for others, without such meaning, the adolescent is prone to suicidal behaviour. In this research we asked ourselves the following question: what are the risk factors associated with suicidal behaviour in nursing students at the Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud of the University of Guadalajara? Suicidal behaviour was assessed in 2624 students with a 107-item questionnaire in 8 dimensions of suicidal behaviour: non-modifiable suicidal risk factors, depression-anxiety, suicidal ideation, precipitating factors, beliefs and protectors to suicide. History of suicide attempt (HIS) was present in 20% and 61% reported suicidal ideation. Students with HIS had significantly higher frequency of risk factors vs. students without HIS; the proportion of protective factors was significantly higher in those without HIS. The highest frequency with HIS was shown between 20 and 25 years of age.