Psychotic experiences and suicidal outcomes in a general population sample

Psychotic experiences (PEs) are associated with suicidal ideation and attempts. However, studies examining the role of potential psychosocial confounders in these associations have yielded variable and inconclusive results. In the current study, data from 974 participants in a general population sample were analyzed. We fitted four regression models to examine the associations between PEs vs. suicidal ideation and attempts, using hierarchical adjustments for sociodemographic factors and psychosocial risk factors. After adjustment for sociodemographic factors and psychosocial factors, PEs were associated with increased odds of suicidal ideation (odds ratio (OR) = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.12–3.22) and suicide attempts (OR = 4.33, 95% CI = 1.77–10.60). For both suicidal ideation and attempts, the association was attenuated but remained statistically significant, even at the highest level of adjustment. Sociodemographic factors and psychosocial factors substantially confound the association between PEs and suicidal ideation and attempts. When adjusting for these confounders, PEs remain independently associated with both suicidal ideation and attempts.