Prevalence and factors associated to depression and suicidal behavior among medical students

ABSTRACT Objective: Depression and suicidal behavior have been described as major problems among medical students. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of depression and suicidal behavior among medical students of an institution and to investigate possible associated variables. Methods: The authors carried out a cross-sectional study through a self-administered questionnaire, including the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Beck’s Suicide Intent Scale (BSIS) instruments. The diagnosis of depression was based on an instrument adapted according to the DSM-IV and ICD-10 criteria. Logistic regression was performed to search for depression predictor variables. Results: In a total of 381 students, the prevalence of depression was 27.6%. Suicidal ideation of moderate to severe intensity was observed in 10.5% of the sample. About 6% of students had previously attempted suicide. Consumption of licit and illicit drugs was frequent among the participants, reaching 78% and 24% of the sample, respectively. The demand for specialized treatment was lower than expected among students with depression. Logistic regression revealed that female gender, reduced interpersonal contact with friends, reduced physical activity, difficulty in facing new situations and high perception of personal pressure were risk factors for depression. Conclusion: The prevalence of depression and suicidal behavior among medical students is higher than in the general population. There is a need for further studies to enable a better understanding of the risk factors and variables at play, which is fundamental for the development of early intervention strategies and support for students. RESUMO Objetivo: Depressão e comportamento suicida têm sido descritos como problemas importantes entre estudantes de medicina. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a prevalência de depressão e de comportamento suicida entre estudantes de medicina de uma instituição e investigar possíveis variáveis associadas. Métodos: Os autores realizaram um estudo transversal por meio de um questionário autoaplicável, incluindo os instrumentos Inventário de Depressão de Beck (BDI) e Escala de Intenção Suicida de Beck (BSIS). O diagnóstico de depressão foi baseado em instrumento adaptado de acordo com os critérios do DSM-IV e da CID-10. Foi realizada análise de regressão logística para avaliar variáveis preditoras de depressão. Resultados: Em um total de 381 alunos, a prevalência de depressão foi de 27,6%. A ideaç