The prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behaviours and social and clinical correlates in Cape Town: a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Suicidal thoughts and behaviours (STBs) are traditionally framed as arising from mental health problems, however, emerging evidence highlights the importance of social determinants in contributing to suicide risk. We examined STBs and their socioeconomic, psychosocial and clinical correlates in two peri-urban communities in Cape Town.

Methods

We conducted psychiatric diagnostic interviews (MINI) at three public-sector facilities (2023-2024). Adults aged ≥18 years, with and without HIV, were recruited in a 2:1 ratio. We examined STB prevalence and associations between past 30-day suicidal ideation and sociodemographic factors, violence exposure, perceived stress, mental disorders, and HIV.

Results

We enrolled 613 participants (63.9% female; 65.4% HIV-positiv

SUBMITTER: Tlali M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12772667 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature