THE RELATION BETWEEN DEPRESSION AND PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT IN NURSING STUDENTS IN THE CONTEXT OF SUICIDAL BEHAVIORS

ABSTRACT

Objective

to determine the relationship between depression and perceived social support in nursing students in the context of suicidal behaviors.

Method

secondary analysis of data from a previous study. Sample from the census of nursing students in Costa Rica. Data collection performed by LimeSurvey during 2020 by means of self-administered questionnaire composed of sociodemographic data section, Beck-II depression inventory and multidimensional scale of perceived social support. Descriptive analysis and Pearson correlation were used.

Results

The majority were female (79.5%), with a mean age of 22.15 years; 85.8% reported mild to minimal depression; 92.2% reported high perceived social support. A significant inverse correlation was identified between level of depression and perceived social support (r=-0.44, p<0.01).

Conclusion

The understanding about mental health conditions by nursing science is broadened to improve care practices in a specific group.

DESCRIPTORS:
Depression; Nursing; Students; Mental Health; Suicide.