Suicidal Ideation Among Indonesian Adolescents: A Qualitative Synthesis of the Psychosocial, Cultural and Spiritual Dynamics

Abstract

Suicide among adolescents represents a significant public health concern in Indonesia, where complex interactions between cultural values, religious beliefs and contemporary social pressures shape mental health experiences. Despite the increasing prevalence of suicidal ideation among Indonesian adolescents, limited qualitative research has explored how these sociocultural factors influence suicide risk within this population. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences and psychosocial factors influencing suicidal ideation among Indonesian adolescents within Indonesia's collectivistic, religiously influenced society. A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed to conduct in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 34 adolescents (aged 15–19 years). Participants were recruited through purposive sampling from educational institutions in West Sumatra, Indonesia. Interviews were conducted in participants' preferred language (Indonesian or Minangkabau dialect), audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis framework. The study revealed five key themes influencing suicidal ideation: (1) the impact of trauma on social and emotional disconnection, (2) the burden of unrealistic expectations and emotional isolation, (3) barriers to emotional expression and coping through isolation and distraction, (4) navigating emotional overwhelm, stigma and spiritual conflict and (5) perceived formality of support and the desire for genuine acceptance. These themes revealed how family disruption, academic pressure and cultural expectations interact with religious beliefs to shape adolescents' struggles with suicidal ideation, whereas also highlighting significant barriers to accessing mental health support. The findings underscore the intricate interplay of psychosocial, cultural and spiritual influences on adolescent suicidal ideation, highlighting the necessity for culturally responsive prevention strategies that address both the protective and constraining aspects of sociocultural norms.