Souls's Croassroads: Unravealling the Impact of Depression and Hopelessness on Suicidal Ideation Among University Student

Soul’s Crossroads: Unravelling the Impact of Depression and Hopelessness on Suicidal Ideation Among University Students

 

 

Authors :

Khansa Rafifa Firzana1, Ilma Halida Alkaf2, Tatu Zakiyatun Nufus3 

Psychology faculty of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Suicidal ideation cases are rising among college students. Depression and hopelessness are considered factors influencing the increase in suicides among university students. The phenomenon of suicide among university students is a complex problem that requires special attention from various parties. Omit, this study aims to determine the impact of depression and hopelessness on suicidal ideation among university students. This paper uses a literature review as its writing method. Results show that depression and hopelessness affect most college student's suicidal ideation. The results on the effects of sadness and hopelessness on suicidal ideation among university students help to explain the factors driving suicidal thoughts and behaviors in this demographic.

Keywords: depression, hopelessness, suicide, university students.

 

Introduction

This article is written based on a phenomenon that has recently occurred frequently, especially among students, namely suicide. The World Health Organization (WHO,2023) lists suicide as the world's fourth most common cause of death in 2019. As many as 703,000 people make suicide attempts each year. Suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior occur due to many factors, including family, religion, and psychology (INASP, 2022). Depression and despair are two psychological conditions that have been linked to suicidal thoughts (Nock et al., 2019).

When it comes to suicide ideation, attempts, and mortality among college students, depression and hopelessness are major risk factors. One cannot stress the importance of these mental health issues for students' overall well-being. This research set out to evaluate the clinical importance and degree of hopelessness and depression as risk factors for suicide thoughts, attempts, and deaths. The choice of this topic stems from the pressing need to address the mental health challenges faced by university students. The prevalence of depression and hopelessness among this demographic, coupled with their potential to lead to suicidal ideation, necessitates a deeper understanding of these factors. Although numerous studies have shown strong correlations between suicidal thoughts, depression, and hopelessness, to fully comprehend these risk factors, it is crucial to address the methodological limitations and inconsistencies that are common to many of the studies (Ribeiro, Huang, Fox, & Franklin, 2018). In conclusion, considering the significant effects on this population's well-being, research on the relationship between depression, despair, and suicidal thoughts in college students is imperative. By building upon existing research and addressing methodological constraints, this study aims to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of how these risks impact the health of university students.

Depression can be used to predict suicidal thoughts, threats, attempts, and completion (Duarté, Lorenzo-Luaces, & Rosselló, 2012; Stewart et al., 2015; Tuisku et al., 2014). According to studies done in Surabaya by Islahiani Rufaidah (2017), suicidal thoughts and hopelessness are related to depression in early adulthood. Deko, Nelwati, and Feri's (2023) research indicates a p-value <0.05 (0.09 and 0.0018) substantial correlation between academic stress and suicidal ideation during depression. The results of research by Monika, Susanti, Ferdinan, Fransiskus, and Tina (2023) showed that respondents on average experienced depression with a score of 12.58, while suicidal ideation with a score of 5.05. A noteworthy association has been observed (p < 0.05) between suicidal thoughts and depression severity. Suicidal ideation is associated with depression in young adults. Based on the results of hypothesis testing conducted by Maulidya (2019), this study found that depression, hopelessness, loneliness, and patience have a significant influence of 43% on suicidal ideation.