Adverse Childhood Experiences As a Predictor of Suicidal Thoughts Among a Sample of Methamphetamine (Shabu) Users at the Eradah and Mental Health Complex in Jeddah

Abstract

The present study investigated the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and suicidal ideation among methamphetamine users at the Eradah and Mental Health Complex in Jeddah. It also examined the prevalence levels of ACEs and suicidal ideation and assessed the predictive power of ACEs on suicidal thoughts. Furthermore, the study explored differences in ACEs and suicidal ideation based on demographic variables, including gender, frequency of exposure to adversity, age, and duration of methamphetamine use. A descriptive research design was employed, utilizing the Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale (Helmy, 2023) and the Suicidal Ideations Scale (Ibrahim et al., 2021). The sample consisted of 93 methamphetamine users (78 males and 15 females).

     The findings revealed a moderate prevalence of both ACEs and suicidal ideation within the sample. A strong, statistically significant positive correlation was found between ACEs and suicidal ideation. Significant differences in ACEs were observed based on gender and frequency of exposure, while suicidal ideation differed significantly by gender and age. No significant differences were found related to the duration of methamphetamine use. Moreover, ACEs were found to be significant predictors of suicidal ideation, with sexual abuse exerting the greatest predictive impact, followed by physical abuse, accounting for 64% of the explained variance.

     Considering these findings, the study recommends increasing public awareness of the long-term psychological impact of childhood sexual abuse through targeted campaigns led by The Family Protection Association. Such initiatives aim to support families in safeguarding children from adverse experiences that may contribute to suicidal risk later in life.