Protective Factors for Suicidal Behaviour in Adults Self-reported as LGBTQ+: A Study Based on Modulating Variables

Abstract

Background This study aims to identify factors that modulate resilience in LGBTQ + individuals with a history of suicide attempts and reattempts. The researchers hypothesize that positive mental health and various internal and external protective factors will predict suicide resilience in this population. Method 112 LGBTQ + Spanish people (60.7% self-reported as female, 34.8% as male, and 4.5% did not identify their gender) aged 18–41 years with self-harm or previous suicide attempts completed several questionnaires measuring variables such as self-efficacy, emotion regulation, social support, entrapment, anxiety, depression, positive mental health, and resilience. Results Regarding the protective variables most predictive of resilience, it was found that social support, positive mental health, and emotional regulation were vital and to a lesser extent, self-efficacy expectations for coping with stressful or adverse situations. In addition, the path analyses revealed distinct profiles of modulated categorical variables in LGTBQ + individuals who had attempted suicide once or who had attempted suicide two or more times. Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of addressing protective factors, such as social support and positive mental health, in promoting resilience and reducing suicide risk among LGBTQ + individuals.