College Student Suicidal Ideation: Perceived Burden Someness, Thwarted Belongingness, and Hopelessness

Abstract

Students subjected to academic stress, social isolation, and other mental health problems work together to increase the vulnerability for suicidal ideation. Current research examined the burdensomeness, combined with belongingness and hopelessness, serving as a link between risk factors and suicidal thoughts among students. Using a convenient sampling technique, a sample of 522 college students (n=259 females and n=263 males) was selected from Mansehra, Haripur, and Abbottabad. Data were gathered using the interpersonal need questionnaire with two subscales(i.e., Perceived Burdensomeness and Thwarted Belongingness), Beck Hopelessness scale, and suicidal ideation scale. The study results demonstrated that burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and hopelessness function as critical factors that link risk factors to suicidal ideation. Research results showed that perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and hopelessness displayed positive connections with suicidal thoughts. Research conclusions create critical requirements for developing programs that aim to eliminate suicidal thoughts among students. Education policy makers, along with other mental health professionals, should focus on solving problems with burdensomeness along with issues related to belongingness and feelings of hopelessness to support student mental health and overall well-being.