Association between employment status and suicidal ideation : Korea national health and nutrition examination survey

Abstract

Abstract Background: Employment status is a key indicator of socioeconomic status, and unstable employment conditions can cause various social problems. However, research in Asian cultures for the association between employment status and mental health has been limited. This study investigated the association between employment status and suicidal ideation in general population in South Korea. Methods: Using data from the 2015, 2017, and 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), 6,509 participants aged ≥ 20 years were analyzed. Suicidal ideation was characterized by individuals considering suicide seriously within the past year. Covariates were adjusted to account for factors such as sociodemographic, health behavior, and mental health factors. Multivariable logistic regression and subgroup analysis were performed. Results: In our KNHANES data analysis, unemployed status demonstrated 1.85 times more suicidal ideation than employed (adjusted Odd Ratio (aOR) 1.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41-2.44, p < .001). Low educational attainment (aOR 2.12, 95% CI 1.51-2.98, p < .001), low income (aOR 1.61, CI 1.22 -2.14, p < .001), presence of stress recognition (aOR 3.06, 95% CI 2.33-4.02, p < .001), and depression (aOR 13.0, 95% CI 10.0-16.9, p < .001) were also associated with suicidal ideation. In subgroup analysis, all covariates, except women and low body mass index, demonstrated combined effects with employment status on suicidal ideation. Conclusions: This study demonstrated a significant association between employment status and suicidal ideation. Comprehensive supportive measures, including policy interventions and a variety of assistance, are crucial to mitigate the risk of suicidal ideation among the unemployed.