Factors associated with suicidal ideation disclosure: Results from a large population-based study

- Half of those with suicidal ideation do not disclose ideation.
- Poor social connectedness is associated with non-disclosure.
- A history of suicide attempt increases the likelihood of disclosure.
- Mental disorders increase disclosure to health professionals.

BackgroundIt is crucial for clinicians and researchers to understand the factors associated with the disclosure of suicidal ideation. Describing the characteristics of those who do not disclose their suicidal ideation or who disclose their ideation only to close others, to health professionals or to both may help researchers and clinicians in their preventive efforts to treat persons at risk for suicidal behavior.MethodsThe sample was drawn from a large cross-sectional survey (n=22,138) on mental health in France. The analyses were based on the 4,156 persons (17.1%) who endorsed lifetime suicidal ideation with or without a history of suicide attempt and who indicated whether and to whom they disclosed their ideation. Socio-demographics, current mental disorders, and social connectedness were assessed.ResultsHalf of those with suicidal ideation had not shared their ideation with anyone, 6.3% did so with health professionals only, 20% with friends or family only, and 20% with both healthcare professionals and close others. Male gender, older age, lower education level and poor social connectedness were associated with greater odds of non-disclosure. Adjusting for socio-demographics and social connectedness, suicidal behavior and mental disorders were overall associated an increased likelihood of sharing suicidal ideation with health professionals.LimitationsCross-sectional survey assessing lifetime suicidal ideation and disclosure.ConclusionsThe findings provide important insight into the individual and social factors to take into account in suicidal ideation disclosure.