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Mason GE, Auerbach RP, Stewart JG. Predicting the trajectory of non-suicidal self-injury among adolescents. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024. [PMID: 39136673 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.14046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is common among adolescents receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment and the months post-discharge is a high-risk period for self-injurious behavior. Thus, identifying predictors that shape the course of post-discharge NSSI may provide insights into ways to improve clinical outcomes. Accordingly, we used machine learning to identify the strongest predictors of NSSI trajectories drawn from a comprehensive clinical assessment. METHODS The study included adolescents (N = 612; females n = 435; 71.1%) aged 13-19-years-old (M = 15.6, SD = 1.4) undergoing inpatient treatment. Youth were administered clinical interviews and symptom questionnaires at intake (baseline) and before termination. NSSI frequency was assessed at 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-ups. Latent class growth analyses were used to group adolescents based on their pattern of NSSI across follow-ups. RESULTS Three classes were identified: Low Stable (n = 83), Moderate Fluctuating (n = 260), and High Persistent (n = 269). Important predictors of the High Persistent class in our regularized regression models (LASSO) included baseline psychiatric symptoms and comorbidity, past-week suicidal ideation (SI) severity, lifetime average and worst-point SI intensity, and NSSI in the past 30 days (bs = 0.75-2.33). Only worst-point lifetime suicide ideation intensity was identified as a predictor of the Low Stable class (b = -8.82); no predictors of the Moderate Fluctuating class emerged. CONCLUSIONS This study found a set of intake clinical variables that indicate which adolescents may experience persistent NSSI post-discharge. Accordingly, this may help identify youth that may benefit from additional monitoring and support post-hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneva E Mason
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Randy P Auerbach
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeremy G Stewart
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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Bao J, Wan J, Li H, Sun F. Psychological pain and sociodemographic factors classified suicide attempt and non-suicidal self-injury in adolescents. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2024; 246:104271. [PMID: 38631150 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to utilize machine learning to explore the psychological similarities and differences between suicide attempt (SA) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), with a particular focus on the role of psychological pain. A total of 2385 middle school students were recruited using cluster sampling. The random forest algorithm was used with 25 predictors to develop classification models of SA and NSSI, respectively, and to estimate the importance scores of each predictor. Based on these scores and related theories, shared risk factors (control feature set) and distinct risk factors (distinction feature set) were selected and tested to distinguish between NSSI and SA. The machine learning algorithm exhibited fair to good performance in classifying SA history [Area Under Curves (AUCs): 0.65-0.87] and poor performance in classifying NSSI history (AUC: 0.61-0.68). The distinction feature set comprised pain avoidance, family togetherness, and deviant peer affiliation, while the control feature set included pain arousal, painful feelings, and crisis events. The distinction feature set slightly but stably outperformed the control feature set in classifying SA from NSSI. The three-dimensional psychological pain model, especially pain avoidance, might play a dominant role in understanding the similarities and differences between SA and NSSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamin Bao
- Department of Psychology, Renmin University of China, Beijing 100872, PR China
| | - Jiachen Wan
- Department of Psychology, Renmin University of China, Beijing 100872, PR China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- Department of Psychology, Renmin University of China, Beijing 100872, PR China.
| | - Fang Sun
- Department of Psychology, Renmin University of China, Beijing 100872, PR China
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Curtis C. Interrupting the Self-Harm Continuum. CRISIS 2024; 45:210-216. [PMID: 38229543 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Background: Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) has increased rapidly and is frequently linked to suicidal behavior; it has been argued that these behaviors are key points on a self-harm continuum. Aims: The current research explored self-harm and help-seeking behaviors, with the aim of identifying possibilities for prevention of further harm, including suicide. Methods: An online survey of 304 New Zealanders was undertaken, with the majority being aged under 25 and female. Results: Nearly half of the sample had engaged in self-harm and most of those had experienced suicidal thoughts; close to a quarter had made a suicide attempt. NSSI was used as a way of dealing with emotional distress. Very few sought help of any kind, especially professional support; of those who did seek professional support, most found it helpful but did not necessarily stop self-harming as a result. Limitations: Men are under-represented in the sample - though this is in accordance with the population of people who engage in NSSI. Conclusion: Many participants engaged in NSSI and also had suicidal thoughts using NSSI as an emotion regulation strategy; some participants appeared to use NSSI rather than attempting suicide. Given a link between NSSI and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, reluctance to seek help and on-going injurious behavior among some who do seek help, there is a need for increased identification and proactive support specifically focusing on improving emotion regulation and targeted at injurious behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cate Curtis
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato, New Zealand
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Zhou J, Hu T, Xue S, Dong Z, Tang W. The association of childhood trauma with suicidality in adult psychiatric patients: The mediating role of NSSI and the moderating role of self-esteem. J Clin Psychol 2024; 80:664-677. [PMID: 38265412 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The contribution of specific childhood trauma subtypes to suicidal thoughts and the associated mechanisms remains unclear, particularly in psychiatric patients. METHODS Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 449 psychiatric patients aged 18-73. Childhood trauma, self-esteem, nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), and suicidality were assessed retrospectively. Regression and moderated mediation model were employed to examine these relationships. RESULTS Emotional and sexual abuse were independently associated with suicidality. Female patients reported higher levels of emotional and sexual abuse, lower self-esteem, and a heightened risk of suicide. Self-esteem moderated the links between childhood trauma and NSSI, as well as between NSSI and suicidality. NSSI served as a mediator between childhood trauma and suicidality. CONCLUSIONS Suicide prevention in mentally ill patients should involve targeted programs addressing specific childhood trauma. Additionally, psychological interventions to enhance self-esteem and assist individuals engaging in NSSI behavior are crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhou
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Leshan People's Hospital, Leshan, Sichuan, China
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Hu
- School of Education and Psychology, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
- Business School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuang Xue
- Department of Sociology and Psychology, School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zaiquan Dong
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanjie Tang
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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5
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Seong E, Lee KH, Lee JS, Kim S, Seo DG, Yoo JH, Han DH, Hwang H, Choi CH, Kim JW. Depression and posttraumatic stress disorder in adolescents with nonsuicidal self-injury: comparisons of the psychological correlates and suicidal presentations across diagnostic subgroups. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:138. [PMID: 38373899 PMCID: PMC10877746 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05533-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) combined with suicide ideation increases the risk of suicidal behaviors. Depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are comorbidities of NSSI compounding this relationship. The present study compared diagnostic subgroups of NSSI based on current depression and PTSD on psychological correlates (i.e., vulnerabilities and impairment) and suicidal presentations (i.e., suicidal cognitions and behaviors) in a psychiatric sample of adolescents. METHODS Eighty-seven adolescents meeting DSM-5 criteria for NSSI and 104 age-range-matched nonclinical controls (NC) participated. Participants completed self-report measures on psychological vulnerabilities and impairment (e.g., emotion regulation difficulties, negative cognitions). Adolescents with NSSI also completed clinical interviews on psychiatric diagnoses and a recent self-injurious behavior (SIB). Scores on the psychological correlates of NSSI were compared between adolescents with NSSI and NC, and across three diagnostic subgroups of NSSI (A: NSSI+/depression-/PTSD-, n = 14; B: NSSI+/depression+/PTSD-, n = 57; C: NSSI+/depression+/PTSD+, n = 14). Differences between NSSI diagnostic subgroups were tested on the motives for SIB and accompanying suicidal presentations (e.g., desire, intent, motive, lethality). RESULTS Common comorbidities of NSSI included depression, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and PTSD. The NSSI subgroup classification was significantly associated with panic disorder, which was controlled for in the subsequent group comparisons. Overall, adolescents who engage in NSSI with vs. without depression reported more psychological vulnerabilities and impairment and a greater degree of suicidal thoughts/desire in SIB (i.e., groups B, C >A), which remained significant after controlling for panic disorder. An increased odds of the suicidal motive for SIB was found in adolescents with all three conditions (i.e., group C: NSSI+/depression+/PTSD+) compared to those with NSSI but neither depression nor PTSD (i.e., group A: NSSI+/depression-/PTSD-); however, this was not significant after controlling for panic disorder. CONCLUSIONS Psychological underpinnings of adolescent NSSI in clinical contexts may be largely associated with concurrent depression. Suicidal motives in adolescents who engage in NSSI in the presence of depression and PTSD may be confounded by the co-occurrence of panic disorder. This study warrants the importance of attending to the comorbid depression with NSSI in adolescents as it is related to an increase in suicidal desire accompanying SIB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice Seong
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Hwa Lee
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Sun Lee
- Department of Psychology, Kangwon National University, 1 Gangwondaehak-gil, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Sojung Kim
- Department of Psychology, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Gi Seo
- Department of Psychology, Hallym University, 1 Hallymdaehak-gil, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hyun Yoo
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Doug Hyun Han
- Department of Psychiatry, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06973, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunchan Hwang
- Department of Psychiatry, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06973, Republic of Korea
| | - Chi-Hyun Choi
- Seoul Alpha Neuropsychiatric Clinic, 511 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06131, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Won Kim
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Human Behavioral Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
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Liu J, Li JT, Zhou M, Liu HF, Fan YY, Mi S, Tang YL. Non-suicidal self-injury in adolescents with mood disorders and the roles of self-compassion and emotional regulation. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1214192. [PMID: 38179248 PMCID: PMC10764550 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1214192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective We aimed to investigate the characteristics and psychological mechanism of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents with mood disorders. We examined how self-compassion and emotional regulation affected NSSI and tested the mediating role of self-compassion in the link between emotional regulation and NSSI. Method We recruited outpatient and inpatient adolescent patients with bipolar and related disorders or depressive disorders (DSM-5), with a focus on NSSI. We also recruited healthy controls from the community. We collected demographic and clinical data. The Adolescent Self-injury Questionnaire, Self-compassion Scale (SCS), and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) were used to assess the frequency and severity of NSSI, level of self-compassion, and emotional regulation. Results In total, we recruited 248 adolescent patients with mood disorders (N = 196 with NSSI, and 52 without NSSI) and 212 healthy controls. NSSI was significantly associated with the female sex, lower levels of education and less use of cognitive reappraisal strategies, lower levels of self-warmth, and higher levels of self-coldness. Multivariate analysis of variance showed that there were significant differences in the scores of ERQ, cognitive reassessment score, and the scores of SCS among the three groups, but no statistical differences in expressive suppression score among the three groups. Self-warmth had a mediating effect between cognitive reappraisal and NSSI behavior. Conclusion NSSI is prevalent among adolescent patients with mood disorders in clinical settings, especially among girls and those with lower levels of education and less cognitive reappraisal strategies. More clinical attention is needed. Self-compassion and its factors may mediate the association between emotional regulation and NSSI. Clinical implications and future research directions were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-ting Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Man Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-feng Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang-yang Fan
- Faculty of Economics and Management, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si Mi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-lang Tang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Mental Health Service Line, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, United States
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Luccarelli J, Humphrey D, McCoy TH, Henry ME, Mueller M, Seiner SJ. Changes in self-reported suicidal ideation during treatment with electroconvulsive therapy: A retrospective cohort study. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2023; 148:553-560. [PMID: 37643775 PMCID: PMC10843260 DOI: 10.1111/acps.13603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Suicidal ideation (SI) is common in patients with depressive symptoms, who are the most common recipients of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). We sought to quantify changes in self-reported SI occurring during treatment with ECT, and to identify factors associated with persistence of SI in patients beginning treatment with SI. METHOD Retrospective, single-center cohort study of patients receiving ECT and who self-reported symptoms using Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS) prior to ECT and after treatment #5 or #10. Changes in QIDS-reported SI over the course of ECT were calculated, and logistic regression models were performed to assess factors associated with reporting SI at the end of treatment. RESULTS 2554 provided baseline and follow-up SI scores, of whom, 1931 (75.6%) endorsed SI at baseline. There was a reduction in SI with ECT treatment (McNemar's test; df = 1, Χ2 = 803.7; p < 0.001), and in adjusted models 64.0% of individuals with baseline SI reported resolution of SI with ECT treatment, while 3.3% without baseline SI reported SI at the end of treatment. Higher baseline SI severity and outpatient treatment were associated with a higher odds of persistent SI among individuals beginning treatment with SI. CONCLUSION Electroconvulsive therapy treatment was associated with reductions in self-reported SI. These results support the use of ECT in the treatment of patients with SI, but further research is needed to determine the effects of ECT on suicidal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Luccarelli
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston MA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston MA
| | - Daniel Humphrey
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC
| | - Thomas H. McCoy
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston MA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston MA
| | - Michael E. Henry
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston MA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston MA
| | - Martina Mueller
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC
| | - Stephen J. Seiner
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston MA
- McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont MA
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Muehlenkamp JJ, Brausch AM, Littlefield A. Concurrent changes in nonsuicidal self-injury and suicide thoughts and behaviors. Psychol Med 2023; 53:4898-4903. [PMID: 35768888 PMCID: PMC9800642 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722001763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a risk factor for suicide, yet how changes in NSSI engagement relate to suicide ideation, planning, and attempts remains largely unknown. The current study aims to fill this gap by examining how changes in NSSI frequency over time related to concurrent changes in suicide thoughts and behaviors. METHODS Data came from a sample of 403 self-injuring young adults who completed assessments of NSSI and suicide thoughts and behaviors at baseline, 6, and 12 months. Bivariate latent growth modeling, adjusting for covariates of lifetime NSSI frequency and treatment status, was used to examine the extent to which changes in NSSI frequency related to suicide ideation and suicide planning. RESULTS The frequency of NSSI declined across the study period. The slopes of NSSI and suicide ideation were significantly correlated, suggesting individuals with sharper declines in NSSI across time also showed sharper declines in suicide ideation. The intercepts between NSSI and suicide planning were significantly correlated, suggesting those with high NSSI frequency at baseline tended to report higher suicide planning across time. After covariate adjustment, the intercept of suicide planning marginally (p = 0.08) correlated with the slope of NSSI, tentatively suggesting that those who had less reductions in NSSI tended to have higher frequencies of suicide planning. CONCLUSION These results provide new evidence that changes in NSSI are related to subsequent changes in suicide thoughts and behaviors. Monitoring suicide risk among those with NSSI is important and treatment aiming to reduce NSSI may also reduce suicide risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Muehlenkamp
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 105 Garfield Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
| | - Amy M Brausch
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Western Kentucky University, 1906 College Heights Blvd, Bowling Green, KY 42101, USA
| | - Andrew Littlefield
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Box 42051, Lubbock, TX 79409-2051, USA
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Kiekens G, Claes L, Schoefs S, Kemme NDF, Luyckx K, Kleiman EM, Nock MK, Myin-Germeys I. The Detection of Acute Risk of Self-injury Project: Protocol for an Ecological Momentary Assessment Study Among Individuals Seeking Treatment. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e46244. [PMID: 37318839 PMCID: PMC10337382 DOI: 10.2196/46244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a major mental health concern. Despite increased research efforts on establishing the prevalence and correlates of the presence and severity of NSSI, we still lack basic knowledge of the course, predictors, and relationship of NSSI with other self-damaging behaviors in daily life. Such information will be helpful for better informing mental health professionals and allocating treatment resources. The DAILY (Detection of Acute rIsk of seLf-injurY) project will address these gaps among individuals seeking treatment. OBJECTIVE This protocol paper presents the DAILY project's aims, design, and materials used. The primary objectives are to advance understanding of (1) the short-term course and contexts of elevated risk for NSSI thoughts, urges, and behavior; (2) the transition from NSSI thoughts and urges to NSSI behavior; and (3) the association of NSSI with disordered eating, substance use, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. A secondary aim is to evaluate the perspectives of individuals seeking treatment and mental health professionals regarding the feasibility, scope, and utility of digital self-monitoring and interventions that target NSSI in daily life. METHODS The DAILY project is funded by the Research Foundation Flanders (Belgium). Data collection involves 3 phases: a baseline assessment (phase 1), 28 days of ecological momentary assessment (EMA) followed by a clinical session and feedback survey (phase 2), and 2 follow-up surveys and an optional interview (phase 3). The EMA protocol consists of regular EMA surveys (6 times per day), additional burst EMA surveys spaced at a higher frequency when experiencing intense NSSI urges (3 surveys within 30 minutes), and event registrations of NSSI behavior. The primary outcomes are NSSI thoughts, NSSI urges, self-efficacy to resist NSSI, and NSSI behavior, with disordered eating (restrictive eating, binge eating, and purging), substance use (binge drinking and smoking cannabis), and suicidal thoughts and behaviors surveyed as secondary outcomes. The assessed predictors include emotions, cognitions, contextual information, and social appraisals. RESULTS We will recruit approximately 120 individuals seeking treatment aged 15 to 39 years from mental health services across the Flanders region of Belgium. Recruitment began in June 2021 and data collection is anticipated to conclude in August 2023. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the DAILY project will provide a detailed characterization of the short-term course and patterns of risk for NSSI and advance understanding of how, why, and when NSSI and other self-damaging behaviors unfold among individuals seeking treatment. This will inform clinical practice and provide the scientific building blocks for novel intervention approaches outside of the therapy room that support people who self-injure in real time. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/46244.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn Kiekens
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laurence Claes
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Steffie Schoefs
- Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nian D F Kemme
- Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koen Luyckx
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Evan M Kleiman
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Jersey, NJ, United States
| | - Matthew K Nock
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
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Al‐Dajani N, Horwitz AG, Czyz EK. Does coping reduce suicidal urges in everyday life? Evidence from a daily diary study of adolescent inpatients. Depress Anxiety 2022; 39:496-503. [PMID: 35322919 PMCID: PMC9246857 DOI: 10.1002/da.23253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth suicide has been increasing at an alarming rate. Identifying how youth at risk for suicide cope with daily distress and suicidal thoughts could inform prevention and intervention efforts. We investigated the relationship between previous-day coping and next-day suicidal urge intensity in a high-risk adolescent sample for a 4-week period. We also investigated the influence of adolescents' average coping levels, over 4 weeks, on daily severity of suicidal urges. METHODS A total of 78 adolescents completed daily diaries after psychiatric hospitalization (n = 1621 observations). Each day, adolescents reported their use of specific coping strategies, overall coping helpfulness, and intensity of suicidal urges. RESULTS Greater professional support seeking from providers/crisis lines and perceptions of coping helpfulness on the previous day were associated with lower next-day suicidal urges. Adolescents who reported greater average use of cognitive strategies, personal support seeking from family/friends, and higher average perceptions of coping helpfulness, relative to others, had lower daily suicidal urges. Noncognitive strategy use was not related to daily suicidal urge intensity. CONCLUSION Findings point to the benefit of intervention efforts focusing on strengthening personal and professional supportive relationships, assisting youth with developing a broader coping repertoire, and working with adolescents to identify strategies they perceive to be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Al‐Dajani
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Adam G. Horwitz
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Ewa K. Czyz
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
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Kivelä L, van der Does WAJ, Riese H, Antypa N. Don't Miss the Moment: A Systematic Review of Ecological Momentary Assessment in Suicide Research. Front Digit Health 2022; 4:876595. [PMID: 35601888 PMCID: PMC9120419 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2022.876595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Suicide and suicide-related behaviors are prevalent yet notoriously difficult to predict. Specifically, short-term predictors and correlates of suicide risk remain largely unknown. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) may be used to assess how suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) unfold in real-world contexts. We conducted a systematic literature review of EMA studies in suicide research to assess (1) how EMA has been utilized in the study of STBs (i.e., methodology, findings), and (2) the feasibility, validity and safety of EMA in the study of STBs. We identified 45 articles, detailing 23 studies. Studies mainly focused on examining how known longitudinal predictors of suicidal ideation perform within shorter (hourly, daily) time frames. Recent studies have explored the prospects of digital phenotyping of individuals with suicidal ideation. The results indicate that suicidal ideation fluctuates substantially over time (hours, days), and that individuals with higher mean ideation also have more fluctuations. Higher suicidal ideation instability may represent a phenotypic indicator for increased suicide risk. Few studies succeeded in establishing prospective predictors of suicidal ideation beyond prior ideation itself. Some studies show negative affect, hopelessness and burdensomeness to predict increased ideation within-day, and sleep characteristics to impact next-day ideation. The feasibility of EMA is encouraging: agreement to participate in EMA research was moderate to high (median = 77%), and compliance rates similar to those in other clinical samples (median response rate = 70%). More individuals reported suicidal ideation through EMA than traditional (retrospective) self-report measures. Regarding safety, no evidence was found of systematic reactivity of mood or suicidal ideation to repeated assessments of STBs. In conclusion, suicidal ideation can fluctuate substantially over short periods of time, and EMA is a suitable method for capturing these fluctuations. Some specific predictors of subsequent ideation have been identified, but these findings warrant further replication. While repeated EMA assessments do not appear to result in systematic reactivity in STBs, participant burden and safety remains a consideration when studying high-risk populations. Considerations for designing and reporting on EMA studies in suicide research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liia Kivelä
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Willem A. J. van der Does
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden University Treatment Center LUBEC, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Harriëtte Riese
- Department of Psychiatry, The Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion Regulation (ICPE), Universitair Medisch Centrum Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Niki Antypa
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
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Measuring Adolescents' Self-injurious Thoughts and Behaviors: Comparing Ecological Momentary Assessment to a Traditional Interview. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2022; 50:1095-1105. [PMID: 35254573 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-022-00907-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare adolescents' reports of self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs) between ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and a traditional, retrospective interview. Adolescents were recruited following recent discharge from acute psychiatric care for a suicidal crisis (as part of a larger study). Participants completed: (1) EMA surveys assessing SITBs multiple times daily over a 28-day follow-up period, and (2) a follow-up phone interview to evaluate SITBs retrospectively at the end of the same 28-day follow-up period. Forty-one adolescents completed the final follow-up interview (Mage = 14.9 years; 78.0% White; 61.0% female). Adolescents' reports of SITB presence (vs. absence) and frequency, collected via EMA and retrospective interview over follow-up, were compared. Preliminary differences in SITB endorsement (presence/absence) were observed between reporting methods with more adolescents endorsing suicide ideation (SI; n = 30) and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI; n = 15) in EMA compared to retrospective interview (SI: n = 17; NSSI: n = 10). Reasons for withholding SITBs from EMA reports (gathered during a final qualitative interview) included not wanting to answer additional EMA questions and concerns about EMA-reporting consequences. There were no statistically significant differences in SITB frequency by report method. Further investigation is warranted in a larger sample to elucidate frequency patterns. Given the growing research using this method, these findings are important to help clarify the utility of EMA methods for studying SITBs in youth.
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Oppenheimer CW, Glenn CR, Miller AB. Future Directions in Suicide and Self-Injury Revisited: Integrating a Developmental Psychopathology Perspective. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2022; 51:242-260. [PMID: 35380885 PMCID: PMC9840868 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2022.2051526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The recent rise in suicide rates among children and adolescents has made suicide prevention in youth a major focus of government agencies and mental health organizations. In 2012, Nock presented future directions in the study of self-injurious thoughts and behavior (SITBs), highlighting the need to better examine which risk factors are associated with "each part of the pathway" to suicidal and non-suicidal self-injury in order to inform prevention and intervention efforts. Over the past decade, we have made important advances in understanding the development of SITBs and effective interventions. However, there are still major gaps of knowledge in our understanding of how to prevent suicide. Researchers have recently called for more studies focusing particularly on the pathway from suicidal ideation to suicidal behavior. However, we caution against prioritizing only a part of the suicide risk continuum (e.g., the transition from suicidal ideation to suicidal behavior) while minimizing research focusing on earlier developmental points of the pathway to suicide (e.g., the first development of suicidal ideation). We emphasize that childhood and adolescence represent a critical opportunity to intervene and prevent SITBs by altering developmental trajectories toward persistent and escalating SITBs over time. We advocate for integrating a developmental psychopathology perspective into future youth suicide research that focuses on how and when risk for SITBs first emerges and develops across childhood into emerging adulthood. This research is critical for informing interventions aimed at bending developmental pathways away from all SITBs. Here, we describe the need for future research that integrates key developmental psychopathology principles on 1) the identification of the continuum from developmentally typical to atypical as SITBs first emerge and develop, particularly among young children in early to middle childhood, 2) the way in which expressions of and risk for SITBs change across development, 3) how SITBs dynamically move along a continuum from typical to atypical over time, and 4) suicide prevention efforts. We also offer recommendations for future directions that focus on identifying disparities in SITBs occurring among minoritized youth within a developmental psychopathology perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline W Oppenheimer
- RTI International, Mental Health Risk and Resilience Program, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Catherine R Glenn
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Adam Bryant Miller
- RTI International, Mental Health Risk and Resilience Program, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Kiekens G, Robinson K, Tatnell R, Kirtley OJ. Opening the Black Box of Daily Life in Nonsuicidal Self-injury Research: With Great Opportunity Comes Great Responsibility. JMIR Ment Health 2021; 8:e30915. [PMID: 34807835 PMCID: PMC8663644 DOI: 10.2196/30915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Although nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI)-deliberate damaging of body tissue without suicidal intent-is a behavior that occurs in interaction with real-world contexts, studying NSSI in the natural environment has historically been impossible. Recent advances in real-time monitoring technologies have revolutionized our ability to do exactly that, providing myriad research and clinical practice opportunities. In this viewpoint paper, we review new research pathways to improve our ability to understand, predict, and prevent NSSI, and provide critical perspectives on the responsibilities inherent to conducting real-time monitoring studies on NSSI. Real-time monitoring brings unique opportunities to advance scientific understanding about (1) the dynamic course of NSSI, (2) the real-time predictors thereof and ability to detect acute risk, (3) the ecological validity of theoretical models, (4) the functional mechanisms and outcomes of NSSI, and (5) the promotion of person-centered care and novel technology-based interventions. By considering the opportunities of real-time monitoring research in the context of the accompanying responsibilities (eg, inclusive recruitment, sound and transparent research practices, participant safety and engagement, measurement reactivity, researcher well-being and training), we provide novel insights and resources to open the black box of daily life in the next decade(s) of NSSI research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn Kiekens
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Clinical Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kealagh Robinson
- School of Psychology, Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Ruth Tatnell
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Olivia J Kirtley
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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