Prevalence and associated factors of suicidality in Japanese adolescents: results from a population-based questionnaire survey

Background Suicide is the first leading cause of death among Japanese adolescents. There are knowledge gaps regarding contemporary demographics and factors associated with suicidality in Japanese adolescents. This study examined the prevalence of suicidality and its associated factors among Japanese adolescents. Methods A population-based questionnaire survey was administered to 22,419 adolescents aged 13–18 years to investigate general health problems in adolescents. The questionnaire included 29 items regarding emotional status, family function, cyberbullying, suicidality, and stressors (focused on relationships with parents or friends, school performance, and sexual identity). We conducted multiple logistic regression analysis to identify the factors associated with suicidality in adolescents. Results The prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempted suicide was 21.6/% and 3.5% in males and 28.5% and 6.6% in females, respectively. Bullying and family relationship stressors had the highest association with suicidality. Exposure to cyberbullying showed the highest odd ratios for both junior high and high school students (3.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.1–4.4; 3.6, 95% Cl, 2.5–5.3, respectively). Adolescents accessed a variety of resources for stressors but chose the internet more frequently. Conclusions Our results indicate that suicidality is a common experience among Japanese adolescents. Although there are many associated risk factors, cyberbullying may be particularly concerning. Recognition of factors associated with adolescent suicidality will help inform future research and suicide prevention efforts for healthcare providers and families.