Among suicidal youth, which factor is associated with increased risk of depression?

• A. Cyberbullying.
• B. Family problems.
• C. Cyberbullying increases risk of depression.
• D. Substance use.

Answer: (C)

Cyberbullying acts as a persistent, pervasive stressor that can erode self-esteem, increase social isolation, and fuel rumination in adolescents. For youths already vulnerable due to thoughts of self-harm or suicidality, repeated online harassment can intensify depressive symptoms by creating a sense of helplessness, fear of ongoing harassment, sleep problems, and heightened negative self-appraisal. This direct, ongoing exposure online often extends beyond the school day and is hard to escape, making its impact on mood and depression more pronounced than other risk factors. While family problems or substance use are also linked to depression, cyberbullying has a particularly strong and specific association with increased depressive risk in suicidal youth, which is why it best explains the connection in this context.