The mediating role of self-compassion and growth mindset in the relationships between multifaceted factors and youth suicidality in Hong Kong

Previous studies have reported protective effects of self-compassion and a growth mindset on youth suicidality. This study aimed to understand the mediating role of self-compassion and a growth mindset in the effects of intraindividual, behavioural, family, and school risk factors on youth suicidality under an ecological framework. A school-based survey was conducted in four primary schools and 11 secondary schools across Hong Kong. Binary logistic regression and path analysis were conducted to examine the mediating and moderating effects of multiple factors on youth suicidality. A total of 4832 children and adolescents were included in this study, of whom 27.31% (Suicidal ideation, SI: n = 1311), 16.92% (Suicide plan, SP: n = 786), 7.17% (Suicide attempt, SA: n = 333), and 11.93% (Nonsuicidal self-injury, NSSI: n = 555) reported experiencing various forms of suicidality. Enjoying school decreased suicide risk by approximately 19% (SP: adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.81, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.67–0.97, p=.02; SA: AOR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.50–0.84, p=.001), whereas preferring online classes increased suicide risk by 30% (SP: AOR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.08–1.57, p=.005). Spending more than 2 h daily on TV, social media, and video games increased suicidal thoughts by 19–41% (from AOR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.00–1.42; p = .046 to AOR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.18–1.69; p < .001). Spending more than 2 h on social media increased suicide attempts by 61% (AOR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.26–2.05; p<.001). Primary school students who spent more than 2 h on social media had 3.26-fold higher rates of suicide plans (AOR = 3.26, 95% CI = 1.50–7.04, p=.003) and 4.16-fold higher rates of suicide attempts (AOR = 4.16, 95% CI = 1.65–10.46, p=.002). Self-compassion reduced suicide risk (SA: AOR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.45–0.76, p<.001; NSSI: AOR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.29–0.45, p<.001), whereas a fixed mindset increased this risk (SI: AOR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.02–1.04, p < .001; SP: AOR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.03–1.05, p < .001). The focus should be on promoting self-control, self-compassion, openness to novelty, adaptive coping, social skills, and family involvement for youth suicide prevention. Not applicable.