Mediating role of Meaning in Life between Perceived Burdensomeness, Thwarted Belongingness and Suicidal Ideation in Spanish patients with chronic pain

This study examines Suicidal Ideation in individuals living with chronic pain, focusing on the contribution of variables from the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide and the potential mediating role of Meaning in Life. The sample consisted of 251 adults residing in Spain who completed the Purpose in Life Test, the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, and the Suicidal Ideation Scale. The results revealed a significant positive association between Perceived Burdensomeness and Suicidal Ideation, as well as a significant negative association between Perceived Burdensomeness and Meaning in Life. Thwarted Belongingness showed no significant relationship with either Suicidal Ideation or Meaning in Life. Mediation analyses indicated that Meaning in Life partially mediated the relationship between Perceived Burdensomeness and Suicidal Ideation, but not between Thwarted Belongingness and Suicidal Ideation. These findings highlight the relevance of Perceived Burdensomeness as a risk factor and suggest the protective value of Meaning in Life in individuals with chronic pain.