A considerably higher rate of suicide exists among youth who are street-involved or homeless than among the general youth population. Research is needed to better understand the risk factors that predict suicidality within this vulnerable population. Our research makes a specific contribution in that it examines both suicidal ideation and attempts. Using data from a sample of 150 homeless and street-involved youth in Toronto, Canada we examine the relative impact of a range of background, street-related, drug use, and mental health variables. The results underscore the particular impact of depression and non-suicidal self-harm behaviour on suicidal ideation and attempts. The findings draw attention to the under-appreciated impact of experiences of bullying and on-street discrimination among this population. These two factors suggest a multi-dimensional process of rejection and social exclusion that begins in school and that continues on the street.
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The Institute of Global Homelessness
IGH supports an emerging global movement to end street homelessness.
IGH supports an emerging global movement to end street homelessness.
IGH supports an emerging global movement to end street homelessness.
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The Institute of Global Homelessness
IGH supports an emerging global movement to end street homelessness.IGH supports an emerging global movement to end street homelessness.IGH supports an emerging global movement to end street homelessness.