Risk Factors for Suicidality Among a Nationally Representative Sample of High School Students

Using 2005 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance data for 13,917 high school students, the authors examined the associations between 4 domains of risk factors (alcohol/drug use, aggression, HIV risk-related behaviors, & health problems) & indicators of suicidality (considering a suicide attempt, making a plan to attempt suicide, & actually attempting suicide). Logistic regressions showed that drug use, victimization, risky sexual behaviour, & two health problems were associated with all 3 indicators of suicidality. Findings suggest that programs to prevent alcohol/drug use, address aggression, promote safety, & prevent unsafe sexual practices may also prevent suicidality. (39 refs.)