Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Caring Sciences 2251-9920 15 2 2026 05 25 The Relationship Between Self-Criticism and Depressive Symptoms in Individuals with Suicide Attempts in Baghdad: The Mediating Role of Self-Compassion 110 118 10.34172/jcs.33564 EN Saja Basem Jalil https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1860-3739 Somaieh Salehi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2749-9633 Mitra Zahirian Moghadam https://orcid.org/0009-0008-1747-361X Journal Article 10.34172/jcs.33564 2024 05 31 2025 10 05 Introduction: Suicide is a serious and complex mental health concern that poses a substantial threat to individuals’ lives and psychological well‑being. From a nursing and caring science perspective, understanding the psychological processes associated with suicide attempts is essential for the development of effective, compassionate, and person‑centered care. In particular, self‑criticism and depressive symptoms are key factors influencing individuals’ vulnerability following a suicide attempt. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the mediating role of self‑compassion in the relationship between self‑criticism and depressive symptoms among individuals with recent suicide attempts in Baghdad. Methods: This cross‑sectional study was conducted among individuals with recent suicide attempts in Baghdad who had medical records in hospitals and clinics during 2023. A total of 210 participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-Ⅱ), Thompson & Zuroff level of scale self-criticism (LOSC) and Neff’s self-compassion scale (SCS). For data analysis, Structural Equation Model (SEM) was used with AMOS software. All statistical analyses were conducted at a significance level of P<0.05. Results: Structural equation modeling indicated that self‑criticism was positively associated with depressive symptoms (β=0.47, P<0.001). Self‑compassion significantly mediated this relationship, with a positive indirect effect (β=0.18; Sobel t=2.246, P<0.05). The proposed model demonstrated acceptable fit to the data (P<0.05). Conclusion: The findings indicate that self‑compassion serves as a mediating factor in the relationship between self‑criticism and depressive symptoms among individuals with a history of suicide attempts in Baghdad. This mediating role underscores the importance of addressing self‑critical tendencies and fostering self‑compassion in supportive and preventive care for this vulnerable population.