The Relationship between Depression and Suicidal Behaviour among Adolescents: Does Social Connectedness make a Difference?

Abstract

Introduction Among adolescents, depression seems to be an important risk for suicidal behaviour. Less is known about the role of social connectedness with classmates in prevention and intervention of depression and suicidal behaviour. Aim Current study examined the relationship between depression and suicidal behaviour among adolescents and whether social connectedness plays a role in this relationship. It was expected that adolescents with more depressive symptoms show more suicidal thoughts and behaviours, with social connectedness as a negative moderator in this relationship. Method High school students (N = 242) in various school levels completed questionnaires assessing depressive symptoms, suicidal thoughts and behaviours and social connectedness. Multiple regression analyses and moderation-test in PROCESS were used to assess relationships between the variables. Results There was a significant relationship between depressive symptoms and suicidal behaviours. Social connectedness did not moderate the relationship between depression and suicidal thoughts and behaviours. However, social connectedness was related to less suicidal thoughts and behaviours among adolescents, even when controlled for the level of depressive symptoms. Conclusion Adolescents with more depressive symptoms show more suicidal thoughts and behaviours than adolescents with less depressive symptoms. The level of social connectedness does not moderate this relationship, but the important role of social connectedness in the development of depression and suicidal behaviours among adolescents is shown in the current study. For efficient treatment of depressive complaints and suicidal behaviour among adolescents, attention should be focused on the role of social connectedness.