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Gromatsky M, Halverson TF, Dillon KH, Wilson LC, LoSavio ST, Walsh S, Mellows C, Mann AJ, Goodman M, Kimbrel NA. The Prevalence of Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Military Personnel: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:2936-2952. [PMID: 36062896 PMCID: PMC9985671 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221119513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Military service members and veterans (SMVs) are at risk for self-directed violence, including nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). While NSSI is an important construct worthy of independent study, it is understudied among SMVs and, when included in research, typically examined in the context of suicide risk. Consequently, lifetime prevalence rate estimates of NSSI among SMVs vary. This Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses systematic review and meta-analysis estimated the average lifetime NSSI prevalence among SMVs and explored demographic and methodological factors that may account for observed variability. Based on a search of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science, 47 samples from 42 articles across five countries met inclusion criteria. Results revealed an average NSSI lifetime prevalence rate of 15.76% among SMVs. Significantly higher prevalence rates were observed among clinical (28.14%) versus community (11.28%) samples and studies using interviews to assess NSSI (23.56%) versus self-report (13.44%) or chart review (7.84%). Lifetime prevalence increased as publication year increased and decreased as sample size increased. In contrast to prior literature, prevalence rates were comparable between active-duty SMVs, and studies collecting data anonymously versus those that did not. Lifetime prevalence was not moderated by age, gender, race, country, primary research focus, quality of NSSI operationalization, or whether NSSI methods were assessed. Findings suggest NSSI is a pervasive problem among military personnel, particularly within clinical settings, highlighting the need for systematic assessment of this important but understudied clinical phenomenon among SMVs. Further research is necessary to elucidate additional risk factors for NSSI among SMVs, including trauma exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Gromatsky
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Tate F. Halverson
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Kirsten H. Dillon
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Laura C. Wilson
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA
| | - Stefanie T. LoSavio
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Samantha Walsh
- Levy Library, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Clara Mellows
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Adam J. Mann
- Department of Psychology, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH
| | - Marianne Goodman
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC
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Zelkowitz RL, Halverson TF, Patel TA, Beckham JC, Calhoun PS, Pugh MJ, Kimbrel NA. Nonsuicidal self-injury methods among U.S. Veterans: Latent class analysis and associations with psychosocial outcomes. Psychiatry Res 2023; 329:115558. [PMID: 37890405 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a debilitating concern among U.S. veterans, with wall/object-punching commonly endorsed as an NSSI method. We examined how this behavior relates to other NSSI methods and psychosocial outcomes. We conducted a latent class analysis (LCA) of NSSI methods among 1,138 Gulf War Era veterans, (77.9% male), 21.7% of whom endorsed lifetime NSSI. We categorized classes based on their associations with age, sex, combat and military sexual assault exposure, then examined the association of class membership with psychosocial indicators. LCA results supported four classes: 1) High punching/banging NSSI (2.5%); 2) Multimethod NSSI methods (6.3%); 3) High-risk, multimethod NSSI (3.1%); and 4) Low-risk NSSI (88.1%). Psychosocial indicators (suicide attempt, ideation, possible depressive or posttraumatic stress disorders, poor psychosocial functioning) were worse for members of the NSSI classes versus those in the low-risk group. A subset of U.S. veterans may engage in NSSI primarily via punching/banging methods. All patterns of NSSI engagement were associated with negative psychosocial outcomes relative to those in the low-risk class of the behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Zelkowitz
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Tate F Halverson
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Tapan A Patel
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Jean C Beckham
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patrick S Calhoun
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mary Jo Pugh
- VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Nathan A Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
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Blakey SM, Griffin SC, Grove JL, Peter SC, Levi RD, Calhoun PS, Elbogen EB, Beckham JC, Pugh MJ, Kimbrel NA. Comparing psychosocial functioning, suicide risk, and nonsuicidal self-injury between veterans with probable posttraumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder. J Affect Disord 2022; 308:10-18. [PMID: 35398395 PMCID: PMC9133145 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) are each common among Unites States (U.S.) military veterans and frequently co-occur (i.e., PTSD+AUD). Although comorbid PTSD+AUD is generally associated with worse outcomes relative to either diagnosis alone, some studies suggest the added burden of comorbid PTSD+AUD is greater relative to AUD-alone than to PTSD-alone. Furthermore, nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is more common among veterans than previously thought but rarely measured as a veteran psychiatric health outcome. This study sought to replicate and extend previous work by comparing psychosocial functioning, suicide risk, and NSSI among veterans screening positive for PTSD, AUD, comorbid PTSD+AUD, and neither disorder. METHODS This study analyzed data from a national sample of N = 1046 U.S. veterans who had served during the Gulf War. Participants self-reported sociodemographic, functioning, and clinical information through a mailed survey. RESULTS Veterans with probable PTSD+AUD reported worse psychosocial functioning across multiple domains compared to veterans with probable AUD, but only worse functioning related to controlling violent behavior when compared to veterans with probable PTSD. Veterans with probable PTSD+AUD reported greater suicidal ideation and NSSI than veterans with probable AUD, but fewer prior suicide attempts than veterans with probable PTSD. LIMITATIONS This study was cross-sectional, relied on self-report, did not verify clinical diagnoses, and may not generalize to veterans of other military conflicts. CONCLUSIONS Findings underscore the adverse psychiatric and functional outcomes associated with PTSD and comorbid PTSD+AUD, such as NSSI, and highlight the importance of delivering evidence-based treatment to this veteran population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M. Blakey
- Durham VA Health Care System; Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center; Durham, NC,RTI International; Research Triangle Park, NC,Corresponding Author: Shannon M. Blakey, PhD, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, Phone: 919-485-5427, Fax: 919-416-8033,
| | - Sarah C. Griffin
- Durham VA Health Care System; Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center; Durham, NC
| | - Jeremy L. Grove
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC
| | | | | | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Durham VA Health Care System; Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center; Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC
| | - Eric B. Elbogen
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center; Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC,VA National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans; Tampa, FL
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham VA Health Care System; Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center; Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC
| | - Mary J. Pugh
- VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City; UT,University of Utah School of Medicine Department of Medicine; Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham VA Health Care System; Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center; Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC
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Gromatsky M, Patel TA, Wilson SM, Mann AJ, Aho N, Carpenter VL, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC, Goodman M, Kimbrel NA. Qualitative analysis of participant experiences during an ecological momentary assessment study of nonsuicidal self-injury among veterans. Psychiatry Res 2022; 310:114437. [PMID: 35183989 PMCID: PMC9169428 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is a useful tool to investigate antecedents and consequences of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), a robust predictor of Veteran suicide risk. Despite elucidating temporal changes among dynamic variables, EMA remains underutilized to study NSSI among veterans, perhaps due to concerns of safety and utility. The present study analyzed data collected from semi-structured interviews of veterans following a 28-day EMA study of NSSI, including benefits, challenges, and recommendations for improvement. Participants included 34 veterans endorsing NSSI history, most meeting criteria for NSSI Disorder. Qualitative analysis of de-identified transcripts used the rigorous and accelerated data reduction (RADaR) technique and thematic analysis. Findings revealed all veterans reported at least one emotional/social benefit to participation, including finding it therapeutic, gaining self-awareness/insight, and improved social functioning. Challenges and recommendations were primarily technology-related, including adjustment to device use. Many expressed interest in incorporation of clinical resources, use of personal devices/VA app, and ability to share responses with providers. Assessment frequency/content was never described as triggering suicidal/nonsuicidal urges and over half of participants noted urge/behavior reduction. Results support acceptability and safety of EMA for NSSI among veterans and potential clinical utility as a psychotherapy adjunct to promote self-awareness and NSSI reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Gromatsky
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 W Kingsbridge Rd, Bronx, NY 10468, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Tapan A. Patel
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Sarah M. Wilson
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC,VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Adam J. Mann
- Department of Psychology, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH
| | - Natalie Aho
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | | | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC,VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Marianne Goodman
- VISN 2 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC,VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
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Dillon KH, Glenn JJ, Dennis PA, Mann AJ, Deming CA, Aho N, Hertzberg JS, DeBeer BB, Meyer EC, Morissette SB, Gratz KL, Silvia PJ, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Affective states and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI): Results from an ecological momentary assessment study of veterans with NSSI disorder. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2022; 52:256-267. [PMID: 34855236 PMCID: PMC8995315 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The affective states most strongly associated with nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) remain poorly understood, particularly among veterans. This study used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to examine relationships between affect ratings and NSSI urges and behaviors among veterans with NSSI disorder. METHODS Participants (N = 40) completed EMA entries via mobile phone for 28 days (3722 total entries). Entries included intensity ratings for five basic affective states, as well as NSSI urges and behaviors, during the past 4 hours. RESULTS Bivariate analyses indicated that each affect variable was significantly associated with both NSSI urges and behaviors. Angry/hostile and sad were most strongly associated with both NSSI urges and behaviors. A multivariate regression revealed that angry/hostile, disgusted with self, and happy (inversely related) were contemporaneously (within the same period) associated with NSSI behaviors, whereas all five basic affective states were contemporaneously associated with NSSI urges. In a lagged model, angry/hostile and sad were associated with subsequent NSSI urges but not behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the relevance of particular affective states to NSSI and the potential utility of targeting anger in treatments for NSSI among veterans. There is a need for future EMA research study to further investigate temporal relationships between these variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten H. Dillon
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC,Correspondence concerning this article should be sent to: Kirsten H. Dillon, PhD, Durham VA Health Care System, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705,
| | - Jeffrey J. Glenn
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Paul A. Dennis
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Adam J. Mann
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | | | - Natalie Aho
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Jeffrey S. Hertzberg
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Bryann B. DeBeer
- VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Waco, TX,Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX,Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX
| | - Eric C. Meyer
- VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Waco, TX,Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX,Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX,Baylor University Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Waco, TX
| | | | | | | | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC,VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC,VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
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Patel TA, Dillon KH, Cassiello-Robbins C, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Anger, impulsivity and wall/object punching in a sample of U.S. veterans with psychiatric disorders. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 147:269-273. [PMID: 35074743 PMCID: PMC8882153 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) has been identified as one of the strongest predictors of suicide attempts. Wall/object punching is a particularly prevalent form of NSSI among male veterans that has been linked to both impulsivity and anger. The objective of the present study was to examine the indirect effect of impulsivity on wall/object punching via anger. Participants included 124 veterans (32 identified as women, 92 identified as men) with at least one psychiatric disorder. A third of the sample met criteria for NSSI disorder (33.1%) with nearly a half of the remaining sample endorsing NSSI. Almost half (41.94%) of the sample endorsed wall/object punching. Consistent with our hypothesis, impulsivity was significantly associated with anger, which was, in turn, significantly associated with wall/object punching. Impulsivity was found to be indirectly related to wall/object punching via anger. These findings underscore the significance of assessing and treating anger among veterans engaging in wall/object punching. Improving our knowledge of anger and impulsivity and their relationship with this particularly prevalent form of NSSI among veterans may lead to a better understanding of suicide risk among veterans and inform future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapan A Patel
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kirsten H Dillon
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Clair Cassiello-Robbins
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patrick S Calhoun
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA; VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C Beckham
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA; VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nathan A Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA; VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
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Suicide Attempts Among Racial and Ethnic Groups in a Nationally Representative Sample. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2022; 9:1783-1793. [PMID: 34291440 PMCID: PMC8294284 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-021-01115-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluate suicide attempt prevalence and potentially related sociodemographic and psychiatric factors among racial and ethnic groups. METHODS Between 2012 and 2013, the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (NESARC-III) conducted semi-structured interviews with 36,309 adults in the USA. We identified lifetime suicide attempt prevalence and significant predictors for each racial/ethnic group using stratified logistic regressions. Analyses were exploratory without a priori hypotheses. RESULTS Asian/Native Hawaiian/other Pacific Islander and Black individuals had the lowest prevalence of suicide attempts while Alaska Native/American Indian and White individuals had the highest prevalence. Identifying as female and meeting criteria for psychiatric diagnoses featuring mood regulation difficulties (depression, borderline personality disorder, bipolar I disorder) were consistently related to a suicide attempt history across racial and ethnic groups, whereas substance abuse disorders and other sociodemographic factors differed between racial and ethnic groups in their associations with suicide attempt history. CONCLUSIONS Although several factors were consistently related to suicide risk across racial and ethnic groups, the prevalence of suicide attempts and overall pattern of related factors were not uniform between racial and ethnic groups. POLICY IMPLICATIONS Study findings highlight the importance of considering suicide risk within the context of race and ethnicity both regarding the overall prevalence of risk and in determining personal factors associated with elevated risk. A failure to appreciate experiences related to race and ethnicity may adversely impact suicide risk assessment and treatment, ultimately contributing to health disparities. Results suggest that additional research is warranted.
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Bresin K, Mekawi Y, Stevens JS, Hinrichs R, Fani N, Michopoulos V, Powers A. From alcohol to aggression: Examining the structure and nomological network of dysregulated behaviors in a trauma-exposed community sample. J Clin Psychol 2021; 78:1220-1239. [PMID: 34862625 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23288] [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: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A large body of research has shown that alcohol use, drug use, aggression, and self-harm often co-occur within the same individuals, suggesting the possibility of shared etiologies. Research has yet to determine the factor structure of these dysregulated behaviors. METHODS Participants (Mage = 40.33; 74% women) completed self-report and interview-based measures of dysregulated behaviors (alcohol use, drug use, aggression, and self-harm), emotion dysregulation, maladaptive personality traits, and symptoms of DSM disorders (e.g., borderline personality disorder [BPD], depression). RESULTS Results showed support for a bifactor model (i.e., all indicators load on a common dysregulated behavior factor and on unique alcohol, drug, aggression, and self-harm factors), which provided a better fit to the data than other models. In line with our hypotheses, the general dysregulated behavior factor was positively associated with emotion regulation difficulties, negative affect, and BPD symptoms. CONCLUSIONS These results have implications for several areas of psychopathology and intervention research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Bresin
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yara Mekawi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jennifer S Stevens
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rebecca Hinrichs
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Negar Fani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vasiliki Michopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Abigail Powers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Foynes MM, Singh RS, Landes SJ. A Functional Approach to the Assessment and Treatment of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury in Veterans: A Dialectical Behavior Therapy–Informed Perspective. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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10
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Kachadourian LK, Nichter B, Herzog S, Norman SB, Sullivan T, Pietrzak RH. Non-suicidal self-injury in US military veterans: Results from the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 29:941-949. [PMID: 34599541 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the prevalence of lifetime non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among US military veterans and identify sociodemographic, military, psychiatric and clinical correlates associated with NSSI. METHODS Data were analysed from the 2019-2020 National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study, a contemporary, nationally representative survey of 4069 US veterans. Outcomes measured included lifetime history of NSSI, trauma history, lifetime and current DSM-V mental disorders and lifetime and recent suicidal behaviours. RESULTS The overall prevalence of lifetime NSSI was 4.2% (95% confidence interval [3.6%, 4.9%]). Multivariable analyses revealed that veterans who endorsed lifetime NSSI were more likely to be younger, female, non-Caucasian, unmarried or unpartnered, and to have a lower annual household income. Veterans who endorsed lifetime NSSI reported more adverse childhood experiences and lifetime traumas and were more likely to have experienced military sexual trauma. They also were more likely to screen positive for lifetime posttraumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD) and substance use disorders and to have attempted suicide. Finally, lifetime NSSI was associated with current MDD, generalized anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as past-year suicidal ideation. CONCLUSION Results of this study provide the first-known data on the epidemiology of NSSI in US military veterans. They suggest that certain correlates can help identify veterans who may be at greater risk for engaging in NSSI, as well as the potential prognostic utility of lifetime NSSI in predicting current psychiatric problems and suicide risk in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorig K Kachadourian
- United States Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Brandon Nichter
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sarah Herzog
- Department of Psychiatry, Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- United States Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- VA Sand Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Tami Sullivan
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Robert H Pietrzak
- United States Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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11
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Novak MA, Meyer JS. A Rhesus Monkey Model of Non-suicidal Self-Injury. Front Behav Neurosci 2021; 15:674127. [PMID: 34421551 PMCID: PMC8374142 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.674127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a type of behavioral pathology seen not only in a variety of clinical conditions but also among non-clinical populations, particularly adolescents and young adults. With the exception of rare genetic conditions that give rise to self-harming behaviors, the etiology of NSSI and the events that trigger specific episodes of this behavior remain poorly understood. This review presents the features of an important, extensively studied animal model of NSSI, namely spontaneously occurring self-injurious behavior (SIB) in rhesus macaque monkeys. We compare and contrast rhesus monkey SIB with NSSI with respect to form, prevalence rates, environmental and biological risk factors, behavioral correlates, proposed functions, and treatment modalities. Many parallels between rhesus monkey SIB and NSSI are demonstrated, which supports the validity of this animal model across several domains. Determining the etiology of spontaneously occurring SIB in monkeys, its underlying biological mechanisms, and which pharmacological agents are most effective for treating the disorder may aid in identifying potential risk factors for the occurrence of NSSI in humans and developing medications for severe cases that are resistant to conventional psychotherapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda A Novak
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Jerrold S Meyer
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
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12
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Nichter B, Maguen S, Monteith LL, Kachadourian L, Norman SB, Hill ML, Herzog S, Pietrzak RH. Factors associated with multiple suicide attempts in a nationally representative study of U.S. military veterans. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 140:295-300. [PMID: 34126423 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Veterans with a history of multiple suicide attempts are at increased risk for suicide mortality relative to those with a single attempt. However, little is known about factors that differentiate veterans who attempt suicide once compared to more than once. This study examined factors that distinguish single suicide attempters (SSA) from multiple suicide attempters (MSA) in a nationally representative sample of U.S. military veterans. METHODS Data were analyzed from the 2019-2020 National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study, which surveyed a representative sample of 4069 U.S. veterans. ANALYSES (a) estimated the lifetime prevalence of SSA and MSA; and (b) examined factors that differentiated veterans with a SSA from MSA. RESULTS The lifetime prevalences of SSA and MSA were 1.9% and 2.0%. The strongest correlates of MSA were history of lifetime depression (odds ratio [OR], 2.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43-8.35), non-suicidal self-injury (OR, 3.28; 95% CI, 1.27-8.45), drug use disorder (OR, 4.0; 95% CI, 1.67-9.54), and marital status (OR, 0.40, 95% CI, 0.18-0.87), which accounted for 15.5%-41.4% of the total explained variance in MSA. DISCUSSION Half of military veterans who have attempted suicide in the United States report more than one attempt, suggesting that suicide attempts are not a one-time occurrence for a substantial proportion of veterans. Veterans who attempt suicide more than once show more deliberate self-harm behavior and have greater psychiatric comorbidities relative to single attempters. Implications for future research examining risk factors for suicide attempts among veterans are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Nichter
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California Sn Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Shira Maguen
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA; University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Lindsey L Monteith
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Veteran Suicide Prevention, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lorig Kachadourian
- National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California Sn Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, VT, USA; VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Melanie L Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California Sn Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sarah Herzog
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert H Pietrzak
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA; Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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13
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Cassiello-Robbins C, Dillon KH, Blalock D, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Exploring the role of anger in nonsuicidal self-injury in veterans. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 137:55-65. [PMID: 33652327 PMCID: PMC8830234 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Up to 14% of veterans engage in nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) in their lifetime and this behavior is a relatively strong predictor of suicidal behavior compared to other identified risk factors. Further, NSSI is a clinically relevant behavior in its own right; it is associated with more severe psychopathology as well as bodily harm that sometimes requires medical intervention. Therefore, a better understanding of NSSI may help inform suicide prevention efforts as well as mental healthcare strategies for veterans. Anger may be relevant to understanding NSSI in veterans. Over 60% of veterans report difficulties managing anger and this emotion is strongly associated with engagement in NSSI. However, no research has explored the extent to which anger is present prior to NSSI or whether anger is associated with specific NSSI methods or functions in veterans. The purpose of this study was to explore whether anger was associated with engagement in specific NSSI methods, and whether anger uniquely predicted any functions of NSSI while controlling for the presence of other basic negative emotions (fear and sadness). An existing dataset of 61 veterans who reported engaging in NSSI in the past year was analyzed. Results indicated anger was the most common emotional antecedent to NSSI. Further, anger was associated with several methods of NSSI including burning oneself with a cigarette, carving pictures, designs or other marks into skin, sticking sharp objects into skin, severely scratching oneself, head banging, punching oneself, and punching walls or objects. Finally, when controlling for the presence of other negative emotions, anger was associated with engaging in NSSI to relieve tension, stop feeling numb, communicate with others, feel alive, get help from others, and prove to oneself how bad things are. These results highlight the importance of assessing and treating dysregulated anger in veterans who engage in self-harming behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clair Cassiello-Robbins
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Kirsten H. Dillon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States,Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Daniel Blalock
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States,Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA,VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States,Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States,Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA,VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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14
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Zelkowitz RL, Mitchell KS, Grossman SL, Nillni YI, Gradus JL, Galovski TE. Latent Class Analysis of Self-directed Violence and Indirect Self-harm Behaviors: Gender Differences and Associations With Mental Health Symptoms. Med Care 2021; 59:S51-S57. [PMID: 33438883 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to (1) examine whether the latent class structure of individuals engaging in self-directed violence and indirect self-harm behaviors (eg, substance use, disordered eating) varied by gender in a sample of US veterans, and (2) test the associations of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms with the resulting classes. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional data from 3581 veterans, ages 18-50 (51.9% identified as women) were analyzed. Veterans self-reported histories of self-directed violence, substance use, and disordered eating. Latent class analysis and latent class regression were used to explore class structure by gender and examine association of class membership with PTSD and depressive symptoms. RESULTS A 4-class model was supported in the sample. Class 1 (20.0%) was characterized by substance use and self-directed violent thoughts and behaviors. Class 2 (8.3%) was characterized by substance use, disordered eating, and self-directed violent thoughts and behaviors. Class 3 (12.6%) was distinguished by indirect self-harm behaviors (substance use and disordered eating). Class 4 (59.6%) reflected low likelihood of behavioral dysregulation. Classes were partially invariant across gender; endorsement of substance use behaviors was generally higher for men in each class. Comorbid clinically significant depressive and PTSD symptoms were associated with the class characterized by highest behavioral dysregulation. CONCLUSIONS Self-directed violent thoughts and behaviors present comorbidly with indirect self-harm in men and women veterans, although patterns of indirect self-harm behaviors differ slightly by gender. Such comorbidity may be associated with more severe presentations of psychiatric concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Zelkowitz
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Karen S Mitchell
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Stephanie L Grossman
- Behavioral Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - Yael I Nillni
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Jaimie L Gradus
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Tara E Galovski
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine
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15
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Yurgil KA, Barkauskas DA, Baker DG. Deployment and Psychological Correlates of Suicide Ideation: A Prospective, Longitudinal Study of Risk and Resilience Among Combat Veterans. Mil Med 2020; 186:e58-e66. [PMID: 33201239 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usaa450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suicide rates among military personnel have risen in part due to war zone deployments. Yet, the degree to which deployment-related stressors, in combination with preexisting and co-occurring psychiatric symptoms and individual resilience factors, contribute to suicide ideation (SI) remains unclear. The current study leverages prospective, longitudinal data to examine both risk and protective factors associated with SI in deployed service members. MATERIALS AND METHODS Participants were 1,805 active duty enlisted Marines and Navy service members assessed before and after a 7-month deployment for SI, preexisting and concurrent symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), alcohol consumption, as well as prior and deployment-related traumatic brain injury (TBI). Current self-reported psychological resilience and social support were analyzed as potential protective factors. RESULTS Rates of SI were 7.3% and 3.9% before and after deployment, respectively. Of those with post-deployment SI, 68.6% were new-onset cases. Multivariate regression revealed that concurrent mild depression was the strongest risk factor (odds ratio [OR] = 10.03, 95% CI 5.28-19.07). Other significant risk factors included prior SI (OR = 3.36, 95% CI 1.60-7.05), prior subthreshold PTSD (OR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.10-3.99), and deployment TBI (OR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.03-3.28). Controlling for clinical symptoms and TBI, the risk of SI was reduced for those with moderate (OR = 0.50, 95% CI 0.27-0.93) and high psychological resilience scores (OR = 0.25, 95% CI 0.08-0.79) after deployment. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that even mild symptoms of depression and PTSD may increase the risk of SI. Screening for subthreshold clinical symptoms and TBI while incorporating psychological resilience training would allow for a more multidimensional approach to suicide risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Yurgil
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.,Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Donald A Barkauskas
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA
| | - Dewleen G Baker
- Department of Psychiatry, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.,Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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16
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Callahan KE, Stori SA, Donahue JJ. Psychological inflexibility processes and nonsuicidal self-injury: Concurrent and prospective associations. J Clin Psychol 2020; 77:1394-1411. [PMID: 33175435 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine concurrent and 3-month prospective associations between a multidimensional measure of psychological inflexibility and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) among participants with a self-harm history. METHOD Participants completed measures of NSSI, psychological inflexibility, negative urgency, and depression at baseline (N = 106, Mage = 34.70, SD = 9.43, 66% women), and were again assessed at follow-up (N = 86). RESULTS Participants currently engaging in NSSI reported significantly higher psychological inflexibility as compared to those who have ceased NSSI. After controlling for covariates, psychological inflexibility was concurrently associated with NSSI recency and longitudinally predicted perceived likelihood of future NSSI. Psychological inflexibility was not associated with new NSSI acts after including baseline covariates. Finally, psychological inflexibility subscales demonstrated differential relationships with various NSSI functions. CONCLUSION Results highlight the psychological inflexibility model's utility in understanding NSSI and have implications for future research that may inform clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie E Callahan
- Division of Applied Behavioral Sciences, University of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shane A Stori
- Division of Applied Behavioral Sciences, University of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - John J Donahue
- Division of Applied Behavioral Sciences, University of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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17
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Holliday R, Borges LM, Stearns-Yoder KA, Hoffberg AS, Brenner LA, Monteith LL. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Suicidal Ideation, and Suicidal Self-Directed Violence Among U.S. Military Personnel and Veterans: A Systematic Review of the Literature From 2010 to 2018. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1998. [PMID: 32982838 PMCID: PMC7479813 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rates of suicide and posttraumatic stress disorder remain high among United States military personnel and veterans. Building upon prior work, we conducted a systematic review of research published from 2010 to 2018 regarding: (1) the prevalence of suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide among United States military personnel and veterans diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder; (2) whether posttraumatic stress disorder was associated with suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide among United States military personnel and veterans. 2,106 titles and abstracts were screened, with 48 articles included. Overall risk of bias was generally high for studies on suicidal ideation or suicide attempt and low for studies on suicide. Across studies, rates of suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide widely varied based on study methodology and assessment approaches. Findings regarding the association between posttraumatic stress disorder diagnosis with suicidal ideation and suicide were generally mixed, and some studies reported that posttraumatic stress disorder was associated with lower risk for suicide. In contrast, most studies reported significant associations between posttraumatic stress disorder and suicide attempt. These findings suggest complex associations between posttraumatic stress disorder and suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide, which are likely influenced by other factors (e.g., psychiatric comorbidity). In addition, most samples were comprised of veterans, rather than military personnel. Further research is warranted to elucidate associations between posttraumatic stress disorder and suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide, including identification of moderators and mediators of this relationship. Addressing this among United States military personnel, by gender, and in relation to different trauma types is also necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Holliday
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Veteran Suicide Prevention, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Lauren M. Borges
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Veteran Suicide Prevention, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Kelly A. Stearns-Yoder
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Veteran Suicide Prevention, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Adam S. Hoffberg
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Veteran Suicide Prevention, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Lisa A. Brenner
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Veteran Suicide Prevention, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Lindsey L. Monteith
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Veteran Suicide Prevention, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
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18
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Smigelsky MA, Jardin C, Nieuwsma JA, Brancu M, Meador KG, Molloy KG, Elbogen EB. Religion, spirituality, and suicide risk in Iraq and Afghanistan era veterans. Depress Anxiety 2020; 37:728-737. [PMID: 32248664 DOI: 10.1002/da.23013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND United States military veterans experience disproportionate rates of suicide relative to the general population. Evidence suggests religion and spirituality may impact suicide risk, but less is known about which religious/spiritual factors are most salient. The present study sought to identify the religious/spiritual factors most associated with the likelihood of having experienced suicidal ideation and attempting suicide in a sample of recent veterans. METHODS Data were collected from 1002 Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans (Mage = 37.68; 79.6% male; 54.1% non-Hispanic White) enrolled in the ongoing Veterans Affairs Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center multi-site Study of Post-Deployment Mental Health. RESULTS In multiple regression models with stepwise deletion (p < .05), after controlling for depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnoses, independent variables that demonstrated a significant effect on suicidal ideation were perceived lack of control and problems with self-forgiveness. After controlling for age, PTSD diagnosis, and substance use problems, independent variables that demonstrated a significant effect on suicide attempt history were perceived as punishment by God and lack of meaning/purpose. CONCLUSIONS Clinical screening for spiritual difficulties may improve detection of suicidality risk factors and refine treatment planning. Collaboration with spiritual care providers, such as chaplains, may enhance suicide prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Smigelsky
- Mental Health and Chaplaincy, Department of Veterans Affairs, Durham, North Carolina.,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Charles Jardin
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jason A Nieuwsma
- Mental Health and Chaplaincy, Department of Veterans Affairs, Durham, North Carolina.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Mira Brancu
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Durham, North Carolina.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Keith G Meador
- Mental Health and Chaplaincy, Department of Veterans Affairs, Durham, North Carolina.,Departments of Psychiatry and Preventative Medicine, Graduate Department of Religion, Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Eric B Elbogen
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Durham, North Carolina.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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19
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Monteith LL, Holliday R, Miller C, Schneider AL, Hoffmire CA, Bahraini NH, Forster JE. Suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and non-suicidal self-injury among female veterans: Prevalence, timing, and onset. J Affect Disord 2020; 273:350-357. [PMID: 32560928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide rates among female veterans have continued to increase, particularly among those not using Veterans Health Administration (VHA) care. Nonetheless, suicide research has rarely focused on female veterans, particularly non-VHA users. The present study examined the prevalence and onset of suicidal ideation (SI), suicide attempt (SA), and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in relation to military service among female veterans. Additionally, current, past, and never VHA users were compared in regard to SI, SA, and NSSI prevalence. METHODS Female veterans (n = 439) participated in a national, cross-sectional survey. RESULTS Lifetime prevalence of SI (47.9%), SA (17.7%), and NSSI (13.2%) were high. Participants were more likely to report experiencing SI and SA following separation, compared to preceding (SI, SA) or during (SI only) military service, controlling for time at risk. However, onset was more likely to occur prior to military service, compared to after separation, for SI, SA, and NSSI. In age-adjusted analyses, current and past users of VHA care were more likely to report experiencing lifetime SI, compared to those who never used VHA care. However, when adjusting for service era, past and never VHA users did not significantly differ. LIMITATIONS Cross-sectional design, retrospective recall, and convenience sample. CONCLUSIONS For female veterans, onset of SI, SA, and NSSI appears to most commonly occur before military service. However, SI and SA prevalence are highest following separation, suggesting a period warranting additional support and intervention. Results underscore the need for continued suicide surveillance, prevention, and intervention efforts for female veterans, especially current VHA users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey L Monteith
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, United States; Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, United States.
| | - Ryan Holliday
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, United States; Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, United States
| | - Christin Miller
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, United States
| | - Alexandra L Schneider
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, United States
| | - Claire A Hoffmire
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, United States; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, United States
| | - Nazanin H Bahraini
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, United States; Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, United States; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, United States
| | - Jeri E Forster
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, United States; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, United States; Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, United States
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Lear MK, Penzenik ME, Forster JE, Starosta A, Brenner LA, Nazem S. Characteristics of nonsuicidal self-injury among veterans. J Clin Psychol 2020; 77:286-297. [PMID: 32662073 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study aimed to (a) assess basic nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) characteristics using a validated clinical interview among a sample of veterans not recruited for specific diagnostic or environmental criteria and (b) examine the relation between NSSI and medical severity of prior suicide attempts (SAs) among veterans. DESIGN We conducted secondary data analyses among a combined sample of veterans (N = 165) from two parent studies conducted at a large VA Medical Center that implemented identical recruitment protocols. No psychiatric criteria were utilized for inclusion or exclusion purposes. RESULTS Approximately 16% of participants reported NSSI history and almost 21% reported SA history. NSSI history was associated with probability of prior SA but not the medical severity of prior SA. CONCLUSIONS NSSI is a prevalent concern among veterans and is associated with probability of SA. It remains unclear whether prior NSSI is associated with more medically serious SA in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Lear
- Portland Psychotherapy Clinic, Research, and Training Center, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Molly E Penzenik
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jeri E Forster
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Amy Starosta
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Lisa A Brenner
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Sarra Nazem
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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21
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Mann AJD, Van Voorhees EE, Patel TA, Wilson SM, Gratz KL, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Nail‐biting, scab‐picking, and tattooing as nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI): A deviant case series analysis of the proposed NSSI disorder diagnostic criteria. J Clin Psychol 2020; 76:2296-2313. [DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adam J. D. Mann
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System Durham North Carolina USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Duke University Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Elizabeth E. Van Voorhees
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System Durham North Carolina USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Duke University Durham North Carolina USA
- VA Mid‐Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Tapan A. Patel
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Sarah M. Wilson
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System Durham North Carolina USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Duke University Durham North Carolina USA
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation Durham North Carolina USA
| | | | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System Durham North Carolina USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Duke University Durham North Carolina USA
- VA Mid‐Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center Durham North Carolina USA
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System Durham North Carolina USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Duke University Durham North Carolina USA
- VA Mid‐Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System Durham North Carolina USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Duke University Durham North Carolina USA
- VA Mid‐Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center Durham North Carolina USA
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation Durham North Carolina USA
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22
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Gross GM, Ronzitti S, Combellick JL, Decker SE, Mattocks KM, Hoff RA, Haskell SG, Brandt CA, Goulet JL. Sex Differences in Military Sexual Trauma and Severe Self-Directed Violence. Am J Prev Med 2020; 58:675-682. [PMID: 32037020 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2019.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous research has demonstrated an association between military sexual trauma and risk for suicide; however, risk for self-directed violence such as suicide attempt or nonsuicidal self-injury following military sexual trauma is understudied. This study examines the relationship between military sexual trauma and serious self-directed violence resulting in hospitalization, as well as whether this relationship differs by sex. METHODS Participants were 750,176 Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn veterans who were enrolled in Veterans Health Administration care during the period of October 1, 2001-September 30, 2014 and who were screened for military sexual trauma. Data were analyzed in 2019. Bivariate analyses and Cox proportional hazards regression models were employed. RESULTS Women veterans were more likely to screen positive for military sexual trauma (21.33% vs 1.63%), and women and men were equally likely to experience serious self-directed violence (1.19% women vs 1.18% men). Controlling for demographic variables and psychiatric morbidity, military sexual trauma predicted serious self-directed violence for both men and women. Further, men with military sexual trauma were 15% less likely to experience self-directed violence compared with women with military sexual trauma (hazard ratio=0.85, 95% CI=0.74, 0.98). CONCLUSIONS Military sexual trauma is associated with risk for serious self-directed violence for both men and women veterans, and the relationship may be pronounced among women. Results underscore the importance of incorporating military sexual trauma into treatment and preventative efforts for self-directed violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina M Gross
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Silvia Ronzitti
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Joan L Combellick
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Suzanne E Decker
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts
| | - Rani A Hoff
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sally G Haskell
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Cynthia A Brandt
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Joseph L Goulet
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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23
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Slagel BA, Taylor SE, Borgonga NC, Currier JM. Proneness to Painful Self-Conscious Emotions, Meaning, and PTSD in Veterans. JOURNAL OF LOSS & TRAUMA 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2019.1682343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brett A. Slagel
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Psychology Department, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Sarah E. Taylor
- Psychology Department, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | | | - Joseph M. Currier
- Psychology Department, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
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24
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Turner BJ, Kleiman EM, Nock MK. Non-suicidal self-injury prevalence, course, and association with suicidal thoughts and behaviors in two large, representative samples of US Army soldiers. Psychol Med 2019; 49:1470-1480. [PMID: 30131080 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291718002015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) prospectively predicts suicidal thoughts and behaviors in civilian populations. Despite high rates of suicide among US military members, little is known about the prevalence and course of NSSI, or how NSSI relates to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, in military personnel. METHODS We conducted secondary analyses of two representative surveys of active-duty soldiers (N = 21 449) and newly enlisted soldiers (N = 38 507) from the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS). RESULTS The lifetime prevalence of NSSI is 6.3% (1.2% 12-month prevalence) in active-duty soldiers and 7.9% (1.3% 12-month prevalence) in new soldiers. Demographic risk factors for lifetime NSSI include female sex, younger age, non-Hispanic white ethnicity, never having married, and lower educational attainment. The association of NSSI with temporally primary internalizing and externalizing disorders varies by service history (new v. active-duty soldiers) and gender (men v. women). In both active-duty and new soldiers, NSSI is associated with increased odds of subsequent onset of suicidal ideation [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.66-1.81] and suicide attempts (adjusted OR = 2.02-2.43), although not with the transition from ideation to attempt (adjusted OR = 0.92-1.36). Soldiers with a history of NSSI are more likely to have made multiple suicide attempts, compared with soldiers without NSSI. CONCLUSIONS NSSI is prevalent among US Army soldiers and is associated with significantly increased odds of later suicidal thoughts and behaviors, even after NSSI has resolved. Suicide risk assessments in military populations should screen for history of NSSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna J Turner
- Department of Psychology,University of Victoria,Victoria, BC,Canada
| | - Evan M Kleiman
- Department of Psychology,Harvard University,Cambridge, MA,USA
| | - Matthew K Nock
- Department of Psychology,Harvard University,Cambridge, MA,USA
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25
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Cunningham KC, Grossmann JL, Seay KB, Dennis PA, Clancy CP, Hertzberg MA, Berlin K, Ruffin R, Dedert EA, Gratz KL, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Nonsuicidal Self-Injury and Borderline Personality Features as Risk Factors for Suicidal Ideation Among Male Veterans With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. J Trauma Stress 2019; 32:141-147. [PMID: 30694575 PMCID: PMC7262676 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
U.S. veterans are at increased risk for suicide compared to their civilian counterparts and account for approximately 20% of all deaths by suicide. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and borderline personality features (BPF) have each been associated with increased suicide risk. Additionally, emerging research suggests that nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) may be a unique risk factor for suicidal behavior. Archival data from 728 male veterans with a PTSD diagnosis who were receiving care through an outpatient Veterans Health Administration (VHA) specialty PTSD clinic were analyzed. Diagnosis of PTSD was based on a structured clinical interview administered by trained clinicians. A subscale of the Personality Assessment Inventory was used to assess BPF, and NSSI and suicidal ideation (SI) were assessed by self-report. Findings revealed that NSSI (58.8%) and BPF (23.5%) were both relatively common in this sample of male veterans with PTSD. As expected, each condition was associated with significantly increased odds of experiencing SI compared to PTSD alone, odds ratios (ORs) = 1.2-2.6. Moreover, co-occurring PTSD, NSSI, and BPF were associated with significantly increased odds of experiencing SI compared with PTSD, OR = 5.68; comorbid PTSD and NSSI, OR = 2.57; and comorbid PTSD and BPF, OR = 2.13. The present findings provide new insight into the rates of NSSI and BPF among male veterans with PTSD and highlight the potential importance of these factors in suicide risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine C. Cunningham
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,The VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Paul A. Dennis
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Michael A. Hertzberg
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kate Berlin
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rachel Ruffin
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eric A. Dedert
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,The VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kim L. Gratz
- Department of Psychology, University of Toledo; Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,The VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,VA Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care; Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,The VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,The VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, North Carolina, USA
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26
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Kimbrel NA, Garrett ME, Dennis MF, Hauser MA, Ashley-Koch AE, Beckham JC. A genome-wide association study of suicide attempts and suicidal ideation in U.S. military veterans. Psychiatry Res 2018; 269:64-69. [PMID: 30145303 PMCID: PMC6207450 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Death by suicide and suicidal behavior are major concerns among U.S. military veterans; however, no genome-wide association studies (GWAS) studies of suicidal behavior have been conducted among U.S. military veterans to date, despite the elevated rate of suicidal behavior observed within this population. Accordingly, the primary objective of the present research was to conduct the first GWAS of suicide attempts and suicidal ideation in a large and well-characterized sample of U.S. military veterans. The gene most significantly associated (p = 9.28 × 10-7) with suicide attempts was the Potassium Calcium-Activated Channel Subfamily M Regulatory Beta Subunit 2 (KCNMB2) gene, which plays a key role in neuronal excitability. In addition, replication analyses provided additional support for the potential role of the ABI Family Member 3 Binding Protein (ABI3BP) gene in the pathogenesis of suicidal behavior, as numerous nominal associations were found between this gene and both suicide attempts and suicidal ideation. Additional work aimed at replicating and extending these findings is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Correspondence concerning this article should be sent to: Dr. Nathan A. Kimbrel, VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, 3022 Croasdaile Drive, Durham, NC, 27705,
| | | | - Michelle F. Dennis
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Michael A. Hauser
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Durham, NC, USA,Department of Medicine, Duke University Health System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allison E. Ashley-Koch
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Durham, NC, USA,Department of Medicine, Duke University Health System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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27
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May AM, Lawson WC, Bryan A, Bryan CJ. Nonsuicidal self-injury, suicide ideation and suicide attempts in the National Guard. Compr Psychiatry 2018; 86:115-118. [PMID: 30114657 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2018.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 07/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among members of the National Guard, suicide rates are higher than age and sex matched civilian counterparts. Across many civilian samples, nonsuicidal self-injury has emerged as a particularly strong correlate of suicide risk. The current study describes the prevalence and correlates of NSSI and suicidal thoughts and behaviors among National Guard members. METHODS Participants were 897 National Guard personnel recruited online who completed study measures anonymously. RESULTS Approximately 6% of males and 14% of females reported a history of NSSI. Almost one third of the sample reported suicide ideation and 3% of men and 11% of women reported a suicide attempt. NSSI was strongly associated with a history of suicide ideation and attempts. Characteristics of NSSI were similar across men and women. DISCUSSION Reliable access to effective interventions is essential for National Guard members in light of their risk for suicidal and nonsuicidal self-injurious behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis M May
- University of Utah, Department of Psychology, 380 S 1530 E, Beh S 502, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; National Center for Veterans Studies, University of Utah, 332 S 1400 E, Building 73, Salt Lake City, UT 84122, USA.
| | - W Cole Lawson
- National Center for Veterans Studies, University of Utah, 332 S 1400 E, Building 73, Salt Lake City, UT 84122, USA
| | - AnnaBelle Bryan
- National Center for Veterans Studies, University of Utah, 332 S 1400 E, Building 73, Salt Lake City, UT 84122, USA
| | - Craig J Bryan
- University of Utah, Department of Psychology, 380 S 1530 E, Beh S 502, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; National Center for Veterans Studies, University of Utah, 332 S 1400 E, Building 73, Salt Lake City, UT 84122, USA
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28
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Holliday R, Smith NB, Monteith LL. An initial investigation of nonsuicidal self-injury among male and female survivors of military sexual trauma. Psychiatry Res 2018; 268:335-339. [PMID: 30096662 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) has been understudied among survivors of military sexual trauma (MST). The aims of the current study were to: (1) describe characteristics of NSSI among survivors of MST and (2) determine if MST survivors who have engaged in NSSI differ from those who have never engaged in NSSI in terms of the severity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms, trauma-related cognitions, and recent suicidal ideation. Participants were 107 veterans (65 females, 42 males) with a history of MST who completed measures of NSSI, PTSD and depressive symptoms, recent suicidal ideation, and trauma-related cognitions. Approximately one-fourth of participants (n = 27; 25.23%) endorsed a history of NSSI. The majority of participants who engaged in NSSI reported that they first engaged in NSSI following MST (n = 18; 66.67%). MST survivors with a history of NSSI reported more severe PTSD symptoms, recent suicidal ideation, and trauma-related cognitions. NSSI was relatively common in the sample and was associated with a more severe clinical presentation. Longitudinal research is needed to understand the development, maintenance, and function of NSSI in MST survivors, especially as it pertains to risk for suicidal self-directed violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Holliday
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, Denver, CO, USA; University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Noelle B Smith
- VA Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lindsey L Monteith
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, Denver, CO, USA; University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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29
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Kimbrel NA, Thomas SP, Hicks TA, Hertzberg MA, Clancy CP, Elbogen EB, Meyer EC, DeBeer BB, Gross GM, Silvia PJ, Morissette SB, Gratz KL, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC. Wall/Object Punching: An Important but Under-Recognized Form of Nonsuicidal Self-Injury. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2018; 48:501-511. [PMID: 28925016 PMCID: PMC6366325 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The present research investigated wall/object punching as a form of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) among 1,143 veterans seeking treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Wall/object punching was remarkably common in this sample (43%), and its inclusion in the definition of NSSI increased estimated prevalence of recent NSSI by 14%. As expected, wall/object punching was strongly associated with other traditional forms of NSSI, post-NSSI relief, and suicide ideation. Male veterans and veterans with PTSD were significantly more likely to engage in wall/object punching than female veterans and veterans without PTSD. More research on this important but under-recognized form of NSSI is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Shaun P. Thomas
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Terrell A. Hicks
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Michael A. Hertzberg
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Carolina P. Clancy
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eric B. Elbogen
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eric C. Meyer
- VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Waco, Texas, USA,Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA,Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Bryann B. DeBeer
- VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Waco, Texas, USA,Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA,Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Georgina M. Gross
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Paul J. Silvia
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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30
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Dillon KH, Cunningham KC, Neal JM, Wilson SM, Dedert EA, Elbogen EB, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Examination of the indirect effects of combat exposure on suicidal behavior in veterans. J Affect Disord 2018; 235:407-413. [PMID: 29677605 PMCID: PMC8954689 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Researchers have theorized that increased rates of suicide in the military are associated with combat exposure; however, this hypothesis has received inconsistent support in the literature, potentially because combat exposure may be indirectly related to suicide risk through its influence on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms. The current study tested the hypothesis that combat exposure has a significant indirect effect on suicidal behavior among Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans through its effects on PTSD-depressive symptomatology. METHODS Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans (N = 3,238) participated in a cross-sectional, multi-site study of post-deployment mental health consisting of clinical interviews and self-report questionnaires. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to examine direct and indirect relationships between three latent variables: combat exposure, PTSD-depression, and suicidal behavior (past attempts and current ideation, intent, and preparation). RESULTS A partial mediation model was the best-fitting model for the data. Combat exposure was significantly associated with PTSD-depression (β = 0.50, p < .001), which was in turn associated with suicidal behavior (β = 0.62, p < .001). As expected, the indirect effect between combat exposure and suicidal behavior was statistically significant, β = 0.31, p < .001. LIMITATIONS Data were cross-sectional, and suicidal behavior was measured via self-report. CONCLUSIONS Results indicated that combat exposure was indirectly related to suicidal behavior via PTSD-depressive symptomatology. Findings lend support for a higher-order combined PTSD-depression latent factor and suggest that Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans with high levels of PTSD-depressive symptoms are at increased risk for suicidal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten H. Dillon
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Katherine C. Cunningham
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Julia M. Neal
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sarah M. Wilson
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eric A. Dedert
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eric B. Elbogen
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Correspondence concerning this article should be sent to: Dr. Nathan A. Kimbrel, VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, 3022 Croasdaile Drive, Durham, NC, 27705,
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Kimbrel NA, Meyer EC, DeBeer BB, Gulliver SB, Morissette SB. The Impact of Cannabis Use Disorder on Suicidal and Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Iraq/Afghanistan-Era Veterans with and without Mental Health Disorders. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2018; 48:140-148. [PMID: 28295524 PMCID: PMC5597481 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess the association between cannabis use disorder (CUD) and self-injury among veterans. As expected, after adjusting for sex, age, sexual orientation, combat exposure, traumatic life events, traumatic brain injury, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, alcohol use disorder, and noncannabis drug use disorder, CUD was significantly associated with both suicidal (OR = 3.10, p = .045) and nonsuicidal (OR = 5.12, p = .009) self-injury. CUD was the only variable significantly associated with self-injury in all three models examined. These findings are consistent with prior research among civilians and suggest that CUD may also increase veterans' risk for self-injurious behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Correspondence concerning this article should be sent to: Dr. Nathan A. Kimbrel, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705. Phone: (919) 286-0411, ext. 6759.
| | - Eric C. Meyer
- VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Waco, Texas, USA,Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA,Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Bryann B. DeBeer
- VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Waco, Texas, USA,Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, Texas, USA,Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Suzy B. Gulliver
- Warriors Research Institute, Baylor, Scott & White Healthcare System, Waco, TX, USA
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Kopacz MS, Crean HF, L Park C, Hoff RA. Religious Coping and Suicide Risk in a Sample of Recently Returned Veterans. Arch Suicide Res 2017; 22:615-627. [PMID: 29220614 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2017.1390513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to examine religious coping and depression as predictors of suicide risk in a large U.S. veteran sample from recent conflicts. Demographic, military history, depressive symptomatology, positive and negative religious coping and self-reported suicidal behavior were analyzed in a sample of 772 recently returned veterans. Suicide risk was computed as a continuum of risk across 4 separate categories. Negative religious coping was significantly associated with suicide risk, even after statistically controlling for depressive symptomatology and other variables. The present analysis did not find any significant relationships for positive religious coping. No significant gender interaction effects were found. The present findings support the importance of understanding veteran experiences of religious coping, particularly negative religious coping, in the context of suicide prevention efforts.
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Kimbrel NA, Wilson LC, Mitchell JT, Meyer EC, DeBeer BB, Silvia PJ, Gratz KL, Calhoun PS, Beckham JC, Morissettek SB. ADHD and nonsuicidal self-injury in male veterans with and without PTSD. Psychiatry Res 2017; 252:161-163. [PMID: 28279896 PMCID: PMC5515623 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present research was to examine the association between ADHD symptoms and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) in male Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans with and without PTSD. Approximately 25% of veterans screened positive for clinically-significant levels of ADHD. Male veterans with PTSD were significantly more likely to report ADHD symptoms than male veterans without PTSD. In addition, as expected, ADHD was strongly associated with NSSI, even after accounting for the effects of demographic variables, PTSD, depression, and alcohol use disorder. Future work aimed at replicating and extending these findings in longitudinal studies of veterans is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A. Kimbrel
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Correspondence concerning this article should be sent to: Dr. Nathan A. Kimbrel, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705. Phone: (919) 286-0411, ext. 6759.
| | - Laura C. Wilson
- University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Eric C. Meyer
- VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Waco, TX, USA,Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA,Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Bryann B. DeBeer
- VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Waco, TX, USA,Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX, USA,Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Paul J. Silvia
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | | | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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Kimbrel NA, Newins AR, Dedert EA, Van Voorhees EE, Elbogen EB, Naylor JC, Wagner HR, Brancu M, Beckham JC, Calhoun PS. Cannabis use disorder and suicide attempts in Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans. J Psychiatr Res 2017; 89:1-5. [PMID: 28129565 PMCID: PMC5374045 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2017.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present research was to examine the association between lifetime cannabis use disorder (CUD), current suicidal ideation, and lifetime history of suicide attempts in a large and diverse sample of Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans (N = 3233) using a battery of well-validated instruments. As expected, CUD was associated with both current suicidal ideation (OR = 1.683, p = 0.008) and lifetime suicide attempts (OR = 2.306, p < 0.0001), even after accounting for the effects of sex, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, alcohol use disorder, non-cannabis drug use disorder, history of childhood sexual abuse, and combat exposure. Thus, the findings from the present study suggest that CUD may be a unique predictor of suicide attempts among Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans; however, a significant limitation of the present study was its cross-sectional design. Prospective research aimed at understanding the complex relationship between CUD, mental health problems, and suicidal behavior among veterans is clearly needed at the present time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Correspondence concerning this article should be sent to: Dr. Nathan A. Kimbrel, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC, 27705. Phone: (919) 286-0411, ext. 6759.
| | | | - Eric A. Dedert
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Elizabeth E. Van Voorhees
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eric B. Elbogen
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer C. Naylor
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - H. Ryan Wagner
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mira Brancu
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center; Durham, NC, USA,Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,VA Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham, NC, USA
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Calhoun PS, Van Voorhees EE, Elbogen EB, Dedert EA, Clancy CP, Hair LP, Hertzberg M, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Nonsuicidal self-injury and interpersonal violence in U.S. veterans seeking help for posttraumatic stress disorder. Psychiatry Res 2017; 247:250-256. [PMID: 27930966 PMCID: PMC5191947 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) has been defined as deliberately damaging one's body tissue without conscious suicidal intent. NSSI is a robust predictor of suicidal ideation and attempts in adults. While NSSI has been associated with other-directed violence in adolescent populations, the link between NSSI and interpersonal violence in adults is less clear. The current study examined the cross-sectional relationship between NSSI and past-year interpersonal violence among 729 help-seeking veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Veterans who reported a recent history of engaging in cutting, hitting, or burning themselves were significantly more likely to report making violent threats and engaging in violent acts, including the use of a knife or gun, in the past year than veterans without NSSI. NSSI was uniquely associated with interpersonal violence after controlling for a variety of dispositional, historical, contextual, and clinical risk factors for violence, including age, race, socio-economic status, marital status, employment status, combat exposure, alcohol misuse, depression, PTSD symptom severity, and reported difficulty controlling violence. These findings suggest that clinicians working with veterans with PTSD should review NSSI history when conducting a risk assessment of violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S Calhoun
- VA Mid-Atlantic Region Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, NC, USA; Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham VA Medical Center, NC, USA.
| | - Elizabeth E Van Voorhees
- Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eric B Elbogen
- Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eric A Dedert
- Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Lauren P Hair
- VA Mid-Atlantic Region Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, NC, USA; Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham VA Medical Center, NC, USA
| | - Michael Hertzberg
- Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C Beckham
- VA Mid-Atlantic Region Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, NC, USA; Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nathan A Kimbrel
- VA Mid-Atlantic Region Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Durham, NC, USA; Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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