Suicide risk assessment among college students: An empirical research survey analysis

Adjustment to new situations and life changes like starting in colleges and universities are often stressful for most students.Since these are challenging transitions for most college youths, they are at risk for developing mental health issues.The continuous stress in the college and academic settings often precipitate the chances of mental health issues like suicidal risk, depression etc among them.Assessment of college going adolescents and students of that age are important to be done on risk factors related to mental health issues so that early intervention and required interventions can be planned.The current research was aimed at assessing suicide risk in a group of college going students using convenience sample.It comprised of 144 students.The mean age of the sample was 23.86 years.The five item Suicide Risk Assessment developed by National Institute of Mental Health.The 5 statements were related to suicidal risk and endorsing on Yes Item indicates possibility of suicidal risk and endorsing on No Item indicates absence of suicidal risk.Of the total sample 65 students endorsed on No and 80 students endorsed on Yes.The group endorsing Yes items emerged as risk factor.The amount of risk also depends on the content of the item.The paper will help in identifying at risk student population and training them to work on the identified issue.This might also help in prevention & promotive aspect of mental health.