Understanding suicide: Do social support and problem-solving skills really matter?

Abstract

Purpose: Suicide is a significant public health problem on a global scale. The role of social support and problem-solving skills in suicide needs to be addressed together and comprehensively. In this study, how the perception of social support and all dimensions of problem-solving skills affect suicidal behavior in individuals with suicidal ideation or intention was evaluted.
 Methods and Materials: A total of 150 individuals including 75 individuals who had attempted suicide and 75 individuals who had not attempted suicide were evaluated. Sociodemographic Data Form, Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I), Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory, Problem Solving Inventory (PSI), Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale (MPSSS) and Suicide Intent Scale (SIS) were administered to participants.
 Results: The anxiety and depression scores of the suicide attempt group (SAG) were found to be higher compared to the no suicide attempt group. The total and subscale scores of the MPSSS were lower in the SAG group compared to the no suicide attempt group. Also, the SAG group felt significantly more inadequate in problem-solving compared to the non-attempters. The PSI-Approach-Avoidance scores were statistically significantly higher in individuals under 30 years of age. 
 Conclusion: When suicide remains an important public health issue worldwide, identifying and modifying suicide ideation, intention, attempt, or completed suicide risk factors is crucial in suicide prevention efforts. In suicide prevention, the individual's relationships with their family, friends, and individuals with whom they share emotional connections should be taken into account. Increasing perceived social support and improving problem-solving skills should be included in suicide intervention programs.