Study-Related Predictors for Depression, Suicidal Ideation and Suicide Risk in German Veterinary Medical Students

Background/Objectives: Compared to the general population in Germany, higher risks for depression, suicidal ideation and suicide risk have been reported for German veterinary students. This study assessed various demographic and study-related risk factors for depression, suicidal ideation and suicide risk for the first time. Methods: An online survey was conducted among German veterinary students to determine demographic and study-related characteristics, study conditions, depression, suicidal ideation, suicide risk, Effort–Reward Imbalance (ERI student version) and motivation and achievement goals (Achievement Goal Inventory) during studies. Data of 913 German veterinary students (90.7% female) aged 18 to 46 years (mean age 23.6 years) were analyzed (response rate 14.3%). Hierarchical logistic regression analyses were conducted, with depression, suicidal ideation and suicide risk as dependent variables and demographic as well as study-related factors as independent variables. Results: With the factors used, the variance explanation was highest for depression, followed by suicidal ideation and suicide risk. Low reward and high overcommitment were found to be the most important predictors for depression, suicidal ideation and suicide risk. Significant associations with depression, suicidal ideation and suicide risk were also revealed for time of study choice, general university entrance qualification grade, learning in a learning group, perceived peer competition and performance expectation from lecturers, as well as transparency of study requirements and transparency of examination requirements. Conclusions: The results of this study provide indications for the development of suitable prevention and intervention measures at veterinary medical schools to strengthen the mental health of veterinary students in Germany.