Perceived-Risk and Protective Factors in Suicidal Ideation and Attempt among Students in the Federal Polytechnic Offa Kwara State, Nigeria

Background: Suicide usually occurs in response to a situation that one views overwhelming. Nigerian university students encounter diverse economic, financial, social, and psychological challenges which could become overwhelming for them. Risk and protective factors give a clear view and targets for intervention in both individuals and communities.

Objective: The broad objective of the study was to investigate the perceived risk and protective factors of suicidal ideation and attempt among students in the Federal Polytechnic Offa.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using a six-stage sampling technique, a total of 236 respondents were selected. Data on knowledge was analyzed using 18-point knowledge scale, a score of >11 was classified as a good knowledge and a score of <10 was classified as having poor knowledge. Data on perception was equally analyzed using 22 point perception scale, a score of >11 was classified as a good perception and a score of <10 was classified as having poor perception. Lastly, data on prevalence was analyzed using a four-point scale. A total mean score was estimated for each respondent. A mean score of 2.5 to 4.0 was classified as a high prevalence while a mean scores below 2.5 was considered a low prevalence. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test at p < 0.05.

Results: Ages of the respondents ranged from 15–30 years with a mean of 21.2±2.8 years. About 50.4% of the respondents were within the age of 15–19 years, and 53.4% were females. Moreover, 86.4% identified “Relationship breakups, shame, loss, defeat, humiliation, or threat” as risk factors, while 85.6% noted “Academic failures,” and 83.1% reported “Experiences of sexual violence or abuse.” Protective factors included “Being calm when faced with difficulties by relying on problem-solving abilities” (92.4%), “Practicing moral sanctions against suicide” (91.9%), and “Getting emotional help and support from family and friends” (83.1%).

Conclusion: When the risk factors are decreased, the tendency to have a thought or attempt suicide is generally decreased and increasing protective factors generally also decreases risk, therefore an holistic and multi-sectoral strategies that strengthen protective factors such as, resilience skills that increase awareness of reasons for living and problem-solving capabilities in individuals as well as promoting the development of supportive family and school environments are recommended.