Conceptualising the correlates of adolescent suicidal behaviour in Benin: evidence from a national survey

Abstract Background Despite efforts to increase awareness about suicide, related behaviours among adolescents in Benin persist as a significant health challenge globally. Nonetheless, there is a dearth of empirical evidence that conceptualises suicidal behaviour and its correlates to provide a better picture for preventive interventions. We analysed a national survey dataset of school-going Benin adolescents, with an analytical sample of 2,536. Results The prevalence of suicidal ideation, plan, and attempt were 14.8%, 16.3%, and 15.3%, respectively. The likelihood of ideating suicide increased among adolescents who engaged in marijuana usage, encountered bullying, felt lonely, and experienced anxiety. Additionally, the likelihood of planning suicide was high among individuals who skipped school, used marijuana, encountered bullying, felt lonely, experienced anxiety, and engaged in multiple sexual relationships. Similarly, the likelihood of attempting suicide was increased among adolescents in grades 3-6 who skipped school, used marijuana, encountered bullying, and felt lonely. Nonetheless, being a male was protective against suicidal ideation and suicidal plans, while younger age was protective against suicidal attempts. Also, having parents who respected adolescents’ autonomy and privacy (never inspected their things without their knowledge) had lower odds of suicidal ideation. Conclusion Suicide prevention programmes must consider multidimensional protective and risk factors concerning adolescents’ personal, parental, family, and community settings in Benin.