Association between employment status and suicidal ideation among Korean employees

Abstract Employment status is a key indicator of socioeconomic status. However, research in Asian cultures for the association between employment status and mental health have been limited. The current study investigated the association between employment status and suicidal ideation. Using data from the 2015, 2017, and 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 6,509 participants aged ≥ 20 years were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression and subgroup analysis were performed. Unemployed status demonstrated 1.85 times more suicidal ideation than employed (adjusted Odd Ratio (aOR) 1.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41–2.44, p < .001). Low educational attainment (aOR 2.12, 95% CI 1.51–2.98, p < .001), low income (aOR 1.61, CI 1.22–2.14, p < .001), presence of stress recognition (aOR 3.06, 95% CI 2.33–4.02, p < .001), and depression (aOR 13.0, 95% CI 10.0-16.9, p < .001) were also associated with suicidal ideation. In subgroup analysis, all covariates, except women and low BMI, have combined effects with employment status on suicidal ideation. This study showed the association between employment status and suicidal ideation. Suicidal ideation occurs in a complex manner due to various factors, it is important to provide support based on a comprehensive understanding of suicidal ideation related to employment status.