Depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic in Russia

Abstract

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic may bear serious consequences for mental health, such as the increase in psychopathological symptoms.ObjectivesAnalysis of changes in depressive suicidal ideation symptoms and during the COVID-19. Depressive symptoms and suicidality were considered separately.MethodsInternet survey 22.03.20–22.06.20 (908 responses), included SCL-90R, COPE, question about suicidal ideation.ResultsThe analysis showed a positive correlation between suicidal thoughts and depression (Spearman .45; p<.001), a growing trend in the depressive symptoms (Std.J-T=2.51, p=.012), and the increase in severity of suicidal thoughts (Fisher’s Exact Test, 5.92, p=.046). Severity of depression positively correlates with the emergence of the virus in the city, contraction of disease among friends (Spearman .165; p<.001), sick and die fears, an also is linked to more expressed seeking «emotional, social and instrumental help» (COPE). The intensity of suicidal ideation was not associated with these factors, but negatively correlated with «acceptance» and «planning».ConclusionsThe increase in depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts is determined by different factors. Depressive symptoms is associated with various fears and mediated by non-constructive ways of coping, but there are also constructive coping-strategies as the search for help. The intensity of suicidal thoughts is associated with higher levels of stress, which cannot be explained by the «objective» threat of contagion and fears, but is experienced as an «indefinite» anxiety, supposedly linked to the measures to counter the pandemic, such as restrictions on social interactions, loneliness and uncertainty. The increase in depressive symptoms is linked with an orientation to another person, but the suicidal ideation is not.DisclosureNo significant relationships.

Connection of Suicidal Behavior with COVID-19: Clinical Cases

“…Indications for the transfer were persistent suicidal tendencies, low mood, lack of plans for the future, as well as the lack of prospects (from Patients with personality/behavior disorders more often than others pointed to the connection between psychological well-being and COVID-19, and the reasons for their problems were the changes resulting from a lockdown in the healthcare system [3]. According to domestic data, the growth of depressive symptoms is due to various fears and is mediated by non-constructive ways of coping with stress [13]. Data on the increase in the sale of antidepressants and tranquilizers in Russia for the Symptoms of anxiety during the pandemic were often observed in the framework of adaptation disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, somatoform disorders, including panic attacks [11].…”

“…Suicidal mood is associated with a high level of stress, and for the development of thoughts about suicide, it is not necessary to have a real threat, it is enough to have the fear of the possibility of infection, or the fear of dying from an incurable disease or losing your relatives for this same reason [13]. Many authors, both in our country and abroad, have pointed to an increase in suicidal mood in general [17].…”

Influence of Loneliness, Anxiety, and Depression on Suicidal Ideation in Peruvian Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…A study in Mexico showed that the prevalence of suicidal ideation was 2.3%, that 1.5% showed a suicide plan or attempt, and that suicide attempts were more common in urban than in rural areas [19]. Similarly, in Russia, positive and significant correlations between suicidal thinking and depression were found in 908 people [20]. In France, loneliness and boredom were independent predictors of depression, anxiety and insomnia in vulnerable people, whereas daily physical activity was a protective factor; virtual contacts also protected against suicidal ideation [21].…”