Factors associated with suicidal ideation and behaviour: analysis from the national suicide prevention helpline in Lebanon

Background: Suicide is a global public health concern, influenced by complex psychological, social, and economic factors. This study examines risk and protective factors associated with suicidal ideation and behaviour among callers to Lebanon’s National Lifeline for Emotional Support and Suicide Prevention. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using routinely collected data from the Lifeline between June 2021 and February 2023. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with passive and active suicidal ideation, suicidal intent, suicide attempts, and self-harm. Predictor variables included age, sex, relationship status, employment status, history of mental illness, and psychosocial risk and protective factors. Analyses were conducted using R, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Individuals aged 25–35 were more likely to report suicidal ideation and self-harm compared to those under 25, while those aged 55 and above were less likely to report any form of suicidality. Mental illness, psychological stress, social isolation, and relationship problems were consistently associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation and behaviour. Financial difficulties and chronic illness were linked to increased risk of ideation and intent but not self-harm. Mental health awareness was associated with decreased odds across all outcomes. Conclusion: These findings underscore the need for age-responsive and contextually grounded suicide prevention strategies. Interventions targeting social isolation, financial stress, and relationship problems, alongside efforts to enhance mental health awareness, are critical. Future research should explore these associations longitudinally to inform tailored, evidence-based prevention efforts in Lebanon and similar contexts. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.