Psychological Strain and Suicidal Behaviors Among Medical Students in Northwest, China: The Mediating Effect of Psychological Distress and Hopelessness

Although most studies have shown the psychological strains associated with increased risk of suicidal behaviors, how psychological strains are linked to suicidal behaviors is still unclear. The current study examines the possible mediation effect of psychological distress and hopelessness on the relationship between psychological strains and suicidal behaviors among Chinese medical college students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from November 2017 to March 2018 involving 5703 medical college students, and the 12-month prevalence of suicidal behaviors was 12.89%. Psychological strains significantly associated with suicidal behaviors, and psychological distress and hopelessness partially explained this relationship. A positive psychological intervention program is needed to buffer the psychological strains, which is a crucial predictor for suicidal behaviors among Chinese medical college students.