Sleep in adolescence and suicidal ideation

This study analyzed sociodemographic and sleep-related factors associated with suicidal ideation among adolescents in public schools in Florianópolis, Brazil. The cross-sectional study included 1026 adolescents (14–19 years; 51.3% boys). Suicidal ideation (dependent variable) was assessed through three dimensions: thoughts, planning, and attempts. Associations were tested with sociodemographics, sleep duration, daytime sleepiness, and subjective sleep need. Prevalence rates were 22.1% (thoughts), 13.2% (planning), and 8.0% (attempts), with higher rates among girls (p < 0.001). Logistic regression showed girls had 1.96-fold higher odds of suicidal thoughts (95%CI:1.41–2.71) vs. boys; adolescents aged 14–16 had 1.46-fold higher odds (95%CI:1.07–2.01) vs. 17–19-year-olds. Excessive daytime sleepiness (OR = 2.00; 95%CI:1.36–2.92) and perceiving a need for ≥3 hours more sleep (OR = 1.51; 95%CI:1.06–2.17) were significant risk factors. Female sex and daytime sleepiness showed the strongest associations with suicidal ideation, highlighting the need for early screening in sleep-deprived adolescents.