Suicidal and help-seeking behavior in Xiamen, south China

Introduction: The aim of this study is to examine the association between suicidal behavior and mental health status of south Chinese people, and explore the mediating effect of help-seeking behaviors. Methods: The study participants were 10,757 persons aged 18 years and older from the mental health survey of Xiamen city. Data on suicidal behavior and help-seeking behavior were collected by trained psychiatric nurses through face-to-face interviews. Mental health status was assessed using the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Multiple logistic regression and general linear model were used in statistical analysis. Results: In the entire study sample, 236 study participants reported suicide ideation (2.19%, 95% CI: 1.92-2.47%), and 59 reported at least one suicide attempt (0.55%, 95% CI: 0.41-0.69%). Individuals with suicide attempt and suicide ideation had higher GHQ scores than those without suicidal behavior. The majority of study participants with suicide ideation or suicide attempt did not seek any help (77.5% and 79.7%, respectively). Among participants with suicidal behavior, seeking help from mental health professional was associated with a better mental health status (OR = 4.04, 95% CI: 1.17-10.16). Discussion: Only a small proportion of individuals with suicide behavior in south China had ever sought help. Seeking help was associated with a better mental health status.