Positive Psychological Factors and Suicidal Ideation: A Study of High School Students in Post-COVID-19 Javanrud

Abstract

Background: Suicidal ideation among high school students remains a major concern in the post-COVID-19 era, particularly regarding students’ psychological resources and resilience. Objectives: This study investigated the association between positive psychological factors and suicidal thoughts among high school students in Javanrud in the 2023 - 2024 academic year. Methods: The study population comprised all male and female high school students in Javanrud. A sample of 200 students was selected using multistage cluster sampling. Data collection instruments included the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS), the Reasons for Living Questionnaire (RFL), and the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations) and inferential statistics (multiple regression and Pearson correlation). Results: The findings indicated that the positive psychological factors of reasons for living and meaning in life were significantly associated with fewer suicidal thoughts and other negative psychological factors. In addition, meaning in life significantly mediated the relationship between reasons for living and suicidal thoughts. These results underscore the importance of maintaining a positive psychological outlook in the context of the post-pandemic challenges faced by students. Conclusions: Reasons for living play a crucial role in shaping individuals’ sense of meaning in life and in reducing the likelihood of suicidal ideation. These findings underscore the need to place greater emphasis on positive psychological components in educational and counseling programs for students, particularly in the post-COVID-19 period.