Perceived-Risk and Protective Factors in Suicidal Ideation and Attempt among Students in the Federal Polytechnic Offa Kwara State, Nigeria

Ebenezer T. Kolawole *

Department of Health Promotion and Education, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

Oyedunni S. Arulogun

Department of Health Promotion and Education, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.


Abstract

Background: Suicide usually occurs in response to a situation that one views overwhelming. Nigerian university students encounter diverse economic, financial, social, and psychological challenges which could become overwhelming for them. Risk and protective factors give a clear view and targets for intervention in both individuals and communities.

Objective: The broad objective of the study was to investigate the perceived risk and protective factors of suicidal ideation and attempt among students in the Federal Polytechnic Offa.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using a six-stage sampling technique, a total of 236 respondents were selected. Data on knowledge was analyzed using 18-point knowledge scale, a score of >11 was classified as a good knowledge and a score of <10 was classified as having poor knowledge. Data on perception was equally analyzed using 22 point perception scale, a score of >11 was classified as a good perception and a score of <10 was classified as having poor perception. Lastly, data on prevalence was analyzed using a four-point scale. A total mean score was estimated for each respondent. A mean score of 2.5 to 4.0 was classified as a high prevalence while a mean scores below 2.5 was considered a low prevalence. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test at p < 0.05.

Results: Ages of the respondents ranged from 15–30 years with a mean of 21.2±2.8 years. About 50.4% of the respondents were within the age of 15–19 years, and 53.4% were females. Moreover, 86.4% identified “Relationship breakups, shame, loss, defeat, humiliation, or threat” as risk factors, while 85.6% noted “Academic failures,” and 83.1% reported “Experiences of sexual violence or abuse.” Protective factors included “Being calm when faced with difficulties by relying on problem-solving abilities” (92.4%), “Practicing moral sanctions against suicide” (91.9%), and “Getting emotional help and support from family and friends” (83.1%).

Conclusion: When the risk factors are decreased, the tendency to have a thought or attempt suicide is generally decreased and increasing protective factors generally also decreases risk, therefore an holistic and multi-sectoral strategies that strengthen protective factors such as, resilience skills that increase awareness of reasons for living and problem-solving capabilities in individuals as well as promoting the development of supportive family and school environments are recommended.

Keywords: Suicidal Ideation, suicidal attempt, risk factors, protective factors


How to Cite

Kolawole, Ebenezer T., and Oyedunni S. Arulogun. 2025. “Perceived-Risk and Protective Factors in Suicidal Ideation and Attempt Among Students in the Federal Polytechnic Offa Kwara State, Nigeria”. Advances in Research 26 (1):34-52. https://doi.org/10.9734/air/2025/v26i11230.