Suicide is a major global health issue, shaped by many interacting factors. Suicidal ideation, the experience of suicidal thoughts, often occurs before an attempt. While some factors increase the risk of these thoughts, others can help reduce them. One protective factor that has been shown to reduce suicidal ideation is social support.

At the same time, feelings of defeat and entrapment are well-established risk factors, as described in the Integrated Motivational-Volitional (IMV) model of suicidal behavior. However, little is known about how social support possibly interacts with these factors. Could for instance, social support help buffer the impact of defeat and entrapment on suicidal ideation?

This study aims to explore the impact of social support on suicidal ideation directly but also indirectly via defeat and entrapment. This presentation will provide insight into the study’s approach and findings, helping to clarify how social support influences the relationship between defeat, entrapment, and suicidal ideation.