Preliminary Identification of Protective and Risk Factors for Suicidal Behaviours Among Indigenous Adults Living in Toronto

Abstract

Background: Suicide rates for Indigenous people living in many areas in Canada are higher than those of the general Canadian population. Objective: To identify protective and risk factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviours in the Indigenous community living in Toronto. Database: Our Health Counts Toronto database, the largest urban Indigenous health study of 897 Indigenous adult participants (15+), was analyzed. Methods: Conducted modified logistic regression utilizing R and SAS software across six domains: i) Self and Community Relationship ii) Social Determinants of Health iii) Health / Exercise iv) Family / Social Support v) Substance Use vi) Cultural Identity / Resources Results: Factors associated with higher suicidality include substance use and challenges accessing cultural ceremonies, while protective factors include full-time employment, and education. Conclusion: Socio-demographic factors are associated with risk of suicide. Cultural and structurally relevant factors and interventions may reduce the risk of suicide in the urban Indigenous community.