The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to educational institutions worldwide. Among these challenges is the increased risk of mental health issues among students, particularly concerning suicidal ideation (SI). A recent study titled "The predictive role of psychotic-like experiences in suicidal ideation among technical secondary school and college students during the COVID-19 pandemic" provides valuable insights into this issue. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing the outcomes of this research or encouraging them to conduct further studies.
Understanding Psychotic-Like Experiences (PLEs)
Psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) are defined as experiences that resemble the positive symptoms of psychosis in the general population. They have been strongly associated with the onset of later mental disorders and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The study explored how PLEs before the pandemic were linked to SI during the pandemic among late adolescents.
The Study's Key Findings
The research involved 938 technical secondary school and college students who completed surveys before and during the pandemic. The findings revealed that:
- Pleas were significantly associated with a higher risk of high frequent SI.
- Better resilience and stronger perceived social support appeared to be protective factors against SI.
- No significant interactions were found among PLEs and other psychosocial and psychological factors.
Implementing Research Outcomes in Practice
The study's results highlight several actionable steps practitioners can take to enhance student mental health support:
- Early Identification: Utilize screening tools to identify students with PLEs early on. This proactive approach can help in providing timely interventions.
- Enhancing Resilience: Develop programs that focus on building resilience among students. Activities such as mindfulness training, stress management workshops, and peer support groups can be beneficial.
- Strengthening Social Support: Foster a supportive community within educational institutions. Encourage peer mentoring programs and create safe spaces where students can share their experiences without judgment.
The Importance of Further Research
The study underscores the need for further research to explore the mechanisms underlying the association between PLEs and SI. Future studies could investigate:
- The role of emotional symptoms such as depression and anxiety in mediating this relationship.
- The impact of different intervention strategies on reducing SI among students with PLEs.
Pursuing these research avenues will not only enhance our understanding but also contribute to more effective mental health interventions for students.
A Call to Action
This research serves as a call to action for practitioners working with students. By integrating these findings into practice, we can better address the mental health challenges faced by students during times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, we can create a more supportive environment that fosters well-being and resilience among young individuals.
