The protective effect of self-esteem on suicidal ideation among nursing home residents with limited social support in China: A cross-sectional study.

The study measured residents at one time, so it cannot show that self-esteem caused lower suicidal ideation or that improving self-esteem would reduce risk. It was done in one city in China, so the findings may not apply to other nursing homes, cultures or countries. Residents with severe hearing impairment, cognitive impairment or terminal illness were excluded, so it says little about the most impaired residents. The data were self-reported, so loneliness, social support, self-esteem and suicidal ideation could be affected by misunderstanding or reluctance to disclose. The paper reports associations and model paths, not a tested intervention, so it cannot tell clinicians which action would change outcomes.

The authors declared no competing interests. The supplied publication types list non-U.S. government research support, but no specific funder or funder role is stated.

Do not conclude that improving self-esteem will reduce suicidal ideation. The study measured residents at one time and found associations, not a tested intervention or cause.