Ideación suicida, uso de sustancias psicoactivas y sufrimiento mental entre la población sin hogar de un municipio brasileño

Abstract

Objective: to characterize the presence of suicidal ideation, use of psychoactive substances and mental distress among homeless people. Methodology: a cross sectional study carried out with 127 participants. Data were collected through the application of a questionnaire containing sociodemographic data, economic information related to living and health conditions and the Self-Reporting Questionnaire; the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test; and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. Data analysis was carried out descriptively. Results: 37% of the sample reported suicidal ideation, with predominance of the female gender (52.6%), adults (from 30 to 39 years old) (36.3%), non-white skin color (35.2%), low schooling level (39.7%), without a partner (36.4%) and earning no income (36.7%). Problematic consumption of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and cocaine was observed among the participants with suicidal ideation. More than half of the sample that presented suicidal ideation was experiencing mental distress. Conclusion: suicidal ideation was identified in a significant portion of the sample. Problematic use of psychoactive substances and mental distress were also prevalent in those with suicidal ideation.