Background: Previous researches have found a relationship between problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) and suicidality. However, few studies have examined the interaction effects between low physical activity (PA) and PMPU on suicidality among college students. This study aimed to examine the interactions of PA and PMPU and their impacts on suicidality in a school-based sample among Chinese college students.
Methods: Analysis was based on data from two universities in China, which recruited 4,787 participants. Binary logistic regression models were used to explore the associations of PA, PMPU with suicidal ideation and suicide attempt, as well as the interactions of PA and PMPU on suicidality.
Results: The prevalence of suicide attempt and suicidal ideation were 3.5% and 7.2%, respectively. Low PA was significantly associated with suicide attempt (OR=3.48, 95%CI: 2.52-4.81) and suicidal ideation (OR=1.90, 95%CI: 1.46-2.46). PMPU was significantly associated with suicide attempt (OR=3.65, 95%CI: 2.66-5.01) and suicidal ideation (OR=2.83, 95%CI: 2.25-3.54). Interaction analysis indicated that low PA and PMPU were interactively associated with suicide attempt (OR=9.51, 95%CI: 6.15-14.73), RERI=4.85(1.20-8.50), AP=0.51(0.29-0.73), SI=2.32(1.34-4.04). There were no additive interaction effects between PA and PMPU on suicidal ideation.
Conclusions: The findings reveal that PA levels and PMPU should be considered in the intervention programs of suicide attempt among college students.