Suicidal behaviors associated with psychosocial stressors and substance use among a national sample of Asian American college students

Abstract

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Asian American (AA) young adults, yet few studies have focused on AA college students. This study examines the link between suicidal behaviors, psychological stressors, and substance use among AA men, women, and transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) college students. Data from the Healthy Minds Study (HMS) between September 2020 and May 2023 (n = 28,856) were analyzed to estimate the three-year weighted prevalences of suicidal behaviors among AA students. Adjusted multivariable logistic regression assessed the odds of suicidal behaviors in relation to psychosocial stressors and substance use. Social isolation significantly increased the odds of suicidal ideation and planning among AA women, while sexual assault significantly increased the odds of suicide attempts. For AA men, social isolation was the only significant predictor of suicidal ideation. Addressing social isolation and sexual violence is crucial for suicide prevention among AA women. Further mixed methods, culturally grounded research is needed to improve mental health interventions on campuses.

Keywords: Asian American college students; Sexual assault; Social isolation; Substance use; Suicidal behaviors; Suicide.