Factors Affecting on Suicidal Ideation in Maladjusted Soldiers

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore levels of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation in maladjusted Korean soldiers and identify factors that influence suicidal ideation. Methods: Instruments were the CES-D (Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale), STAI (State Trait Anxiety Inventory), and SSI (Scale for Suicidal Ideation). The participants were 94 maladjusted soldiers from one army base in Gyeong-gi Province. Data were collected using self-report questionnaires, and analyzed with the SPSS/WIN 20.0 program. Results: Mean scores were; for CES-D, 42.1±13.10, for STAI-I (state-anxiety) and STAI-II (trait-anxiety), 60.3±15.05 and 61.9±12.14 respectfully, and for SSI, 23.1±9.52. There were significant differences in suicidal ideation according the general characteristics of education, prospects for the future, and having someone to talk about troubles. Major variables showing significant correlations were prospects for the future, depression, trait anxiety, state anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Depression and prospect for future were significant predictors of suicidal ideation (Adjusted R 2 65%). Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it is important to assess significant mental health problems at the clinical level and provide suicidal ideation prevention in maladjusted soldiers. Active input from experts such as nursing officers and intervention programs that focus on depression are needed.