Objective

To estimate the relationship between risky suicidal ideation and psychosocial factors in adolescents enrolled in public schools in Suba, a locality in Bogotá (Colombia).

Methods and Materials

Descriptive cross-sectional study. 28 229 adolescents from 26 public schools in Suba, a locality in Bogotá, polled between 2006 and 2018. A self-administered questionnaire was applied. Variables of suicidal ideation were selected (have thought about suicide and would like to do it versus has not thought about it). These variables were compared both with family psychosocial aspects as well as emotional aspects of adolescents.

Results

1 157 adolescents (4.3%) have thought about suicide and would like to do it. 8.6% (2 279) have thought about it and have sought help and, 17 273 (63.6%) have not thought about it. 5.4% (1 442) perceived serious family dysfunction. 637 (2.3%) received physical punishment by parents. 1 269 parents (4.7%) used psychoactive substances frequently. The strongest relationships are: Severe family dysfunction (OR 2.5 95% CI 1.6-3.8), parents who consume psychoactive substances frequently (OR 2.5 95% CI 1.4-4.6) and having thought about suicide and asking for help (OR 0.012 95% CI 0.09-0.015).

Conclusions

Poor relationships between parents and children seem to be the most important factor for risky suicidal ideation and asking for help is the main protective factor.