Association of Bullying Victimization and Loneliness on Suicidal Ideation and Anxiety Among 15–17-year-olds in Sierra Leone: An Analysis of the 2017 Global School-Based Health Survey
Clark, Andre Bethel, Meghan Pilja, Arian Riby-Williams, Mary-Noel Simmons, Grace Leslie, Abimbola de Jager, Elzerie Delaney, Thomas
Clark, Andre
Bethel, Meghan
Pilja, Arian
Riby-Williams, Mary-Noel
Simmons, Grace
Leslie, Abimbola
de Jager, Elzerie
Delaney, Thomas
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Abstract
Abstract Objectives: This study evaluates the association between suicidal ideation and anxiety with bullying victimization and loneliness among 15–17-year-old students in Sierra Leone. Methods: We analyzed data from 1,419 surveys from the 2017 Global-Based School Health Survey. We performed univariate and multivariable binomial logistic regressions, controlling for age, gender, substance use, and social connectedness variables. Results: Bullying increased the likelihood of suicidal ideation (OR 3.5; CI 95% 2.3-5.34). Students experiencing bullying and loneliness had higher odds of anxiety (OR:1.57; 95% CI 1.15-2.14, and OR:2.54; 95% CI 2.82-3.55 respectively) compared to students without these experiences. There was no association between peers’ kindness and anxiety (OR:1.42; 95% CI 0.99-2.02). Conclusions: Bullying victimization is associated with suicidal ideation and anxiety among Sierra Leonean students. Loneliness is associated with feelings of anxiety, but not suicidal ideation. Social connectedness did not appear to reduce these risks. Policy implications: Addressing bullying and loneliness is critical for reducing suicidality and anxiety among adolescents in Sierra Leone. Systemic changes, including public health campaigns and community outreach, are necessary to strengthen connections and support.
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2024-01-01