Social Connectedness in Suicide Risk Prevention Among Adolescents

Berny, L.M., Mojekwu, F., Nichols, L.M. et al. Investigating the Interplay Between Mental Health Conditions and Social Connectedness on Suicide Risk: Findings from a Clinical Sample of Adolescents. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 56, 1573–1585 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10578-023-01659-x

Introduction

Adolescent suicide remains a critical public health concern, particularly among youth with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Berny and colleagues (2025) investigate whether school and community connectedness can reduce suicide or mental health risks in a clinical sample of adolescents, extending prior work that has focused largely on community samples.

Methods

The study analyzed baseline data from 294 adolescents (ages 13–19) enrolled after substance use treatment or recovery high school entry. Suicide risk was categorized into three groups: non-suicidal, ideation only, and prior attempt. Mental health indicators included depression severity, panic disorder, and disordered eating. Measures of connectedness captured positive peer interactions, teacher support, school safety, neighborhood social connection, and community engagement. Multinomial logistic regression tested both main effects and moderation, controlling for demographics and substance use.

Results

Depression severity and panic disorder were associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation, while disordered eating uniquely predicted suicide attempts. Higher levels of school safety, positive peer interactions, and neighborhood social connection were linked to lower attempt risk. Notably, neighborhood social connection buffered the association between disordered eating and attempts, such that risk was highest only when community connection was low.

Discussion

Findings align with ideation-to-action theories, suggesting that while mental health conditions elevate risk, social environments shape whether ideation progresses to attempts. The study highlights the protective role of perceived belonging, particularly outside the family, while noting limits of cross-sectional data and a largely White clinical sample.

Implications for mentoring programs

Mentoring programs may reduce suicide risk by strengthening consistent, affirming connections with trusted adults and peers. Emphasizing safety, belonging, and community engagement—especially for youth with eating-related concerns—can complement clinical care and support prevention efforts.

Read the full paper here.