A systematic analysis of online broadcasts of suicidality in China

IntroductionThis study attempts to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of online broadcasts of suicidality in China. MethodsA total of 193 incidents were identified by systematically searching for relevant news reports on the internet. A content analysis on these news reports was conducted to obtain information on the characteristics of each individual incident. ResultsOf these incidents, the ratio of males to females was 1:1.7 (age: 24.66.1years old). Approximately 45.4% and 70.8% of incidents were located in the region of Eastern China and Southern China, respectively, and 15.7% of incidents were unemployed. The most common suicide method was wrist cutting (57.5%), and the most common suicide location was at home (35.2%). Instant messaging apps (52.8%) were most frequently used for broadcasting suicidal thoughts and actions. Relationship breakup (61.1%) was reported as the leading cause of suicide. Furthermore, of the 193 incidents, 19 indicated that they suffered from a mental disorder, and 12 revealed that they had a history of suicide attempts. There were significant gender, age, regional, and occupational differences across the categories. DiscussionThis study indicates that in China, suicide prevention programmes need to target internet users