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Ki M, Lapierre S, Gim B, Hwang M, Kang M, Dargis L, Jung M, Koh EJ, Mishara B. A systematic review of psychosocial protective factors against suicide and suicidality among older adults. Int Psychogeriatr 2024; 36:346-370. [PMID: 38305360 DOI: 10.1017/s104161022300443x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on suicide rarely focuses on protective factors. The goal of this systematic review was to assess the evidence of the associations between protective factors and reduced suicidality among older adults. METHOD First, a scoping review was conducted to identify pertinent terms that refer to various protective factors against suicidality. A systematic review, following the PRISMA guidelines, was then conducted on a selection of 15 protective factors (e.g., perceived control, well-being and quality of life, life satisfaction, purpose-in-life, resilience, coping, religiosity, hope, self-regulation, sense of belonging, mattering, positive relationship, social support, social connectedness, and social participation), with separate searches performed on each factor in five databases. Empirical studies were eligible if participants were adults aged 60 years and over, and if the studies reported predictive statistical analysis. RESULTS A total of 70 studies were retained for the review. Suicidal ideation was the main outcome measure (91%). Significant associations were consistently observed between all protective factors and reduced suicidal ideations or behaviors, particularly for purpose-in-life, resilience, and positive relationships, indicating that these are solid components for suicide prevention. Using scales, instead of a single item, to measure protective factors (e.g. life satisfaction) was more efficient to capture the associations. On the other hand, results were similar whether studies used subjective (e.g., sense of belonging) or objective (e.g., social connectedness) measures. CONCLUSION Protective factors were inversely associated with suicidal ideation. Improving protective factors is essential for the development of late-life suicide prevention and interventions, instead of merely focusing on risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Ki
- Department of Public Health, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Four Research and Education Center, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sylvie Lapierre
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
- Centre for Research and Intervention on Suicide, Ethical Issues and End of Life Practices, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Boeun Gim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Minji Hwang
- Department of Public Health, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Four Research and Education Center, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Minku Kang
- Department of Public Health, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Luc Dargis
- Centre for Research and Intervention on Suicide, Ethical Issues and End of Life Practices, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Myoungjee Jung
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Emily Jiali Koh
- Department of Public Health, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Brian Mishara
- Centre for Research and Intervention on Suicide, Ethical Issues and End of Life Practices, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
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Dudeney E, Coates R, Ayers S, McCabe R. Acceptability and content validity of suicidality screening items: a qualitative study with perinatal women. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1359076. [PMID: 38666087 PMCID: PMC11044181 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1359076] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Suicide is a leading cause of death for perinatal women. It is estimated that up to 50% of women with mental health issues during pregnancy and/or after birth are not identified, despite regular contact with healthcare services. Screening items are one way in which perinatal women needing support could be identified. However, research examining the content validity and acceptability of suicide-related screening items with perinatal women is limited. Aims This study sought to: (i) assess the acceptability and content validity of 16 suicide-related items that have been administered and/or validated in perinatal populations; and (ii) explore the potential barriers and facilitators that may affect how women respond to these items when administered during pregnancy and after birth. Methods Twenty-one cognitive and semi-structured interviews were conducted with pregnant and postnatal women in the UK. The sample included women who had experienced self-reported mental health problems and/or suicidality during the perinatal period, and those who had not. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and a coding framework based on the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability was applied to explore the data using deductive and inductive approaches. Results Findings indicated that the acceptability and content validity of suicide-related items were largely unacceptable to perinatal women in their current form. Women found terms such as 'better off dead' or 'killing myself' uncomfortable. Most women preferred the phrase 'ending your life' as this felt less confronting. Comprehensibility was also problematic. Many women did not interpret 'harming myself' to include suicidality, nor did they feel that abstract language such as 'leave this world' was direct enough in relation to suicide. Stigma, fear, and shame was central to non-disclosure. Response options and recall periods further affected the content validity of items, which created additional barriers for identifying those needing support. Conclusions Existing suicide-related screening items may not be acceptable to perinatal women. Maternity practitioners and researchers should consider the phrasing, clarity, context, and framing of screening items when discussing suicidality with perinatal women to ensure potential barriers are not being reinforced. The development of specific suicidality screening measures that are acceptable, appropriate, and relevant to perinatal women are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Dudeney
- Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, School of Heath and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rose Coates
- Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, School of Heath and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Ayers
- Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, School of Heath and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rose McCabe
- Centre for Mental Health Research, School of Heath and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Zhang Y, He Y, Pang Y, Su Z, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Lu Y, Jiang Y, Han X, Song L, Wang L, Li Z, Lv X, Wang Y, Yao J, Liu X, Zhou X, He S, Song L, Li J, Wang B, Tang L. Suicidal ideation in Chinese patients with advanced breast cancer: a multi-center mediation model study. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:139. [PMID: 38475847 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01607-x] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The pathways underpinning suicide ideation (SI) and certain physical and psychological factors in patients with advanced breast cancer remain unclear. This study develops and validates a mediation model that delineates the associations between several multidimensional variables and SI in Chinese patients with advanced breast cancer. METHODS Patients with advanced breast cancer (n = 509) were recruited as study participants from 10 regional cancer centers across China from August 2019 to December 2020. Participants were required to complete five questionnaires using an electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO) system: 9 item- Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), 5-level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-5L), and MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI). Risk factors for SI were identified using multivariable logistic regression, and inputted into serial multiple mediation models to elucidate the pathways linking the risk factors to SI. RESULTS SI prevalence was 22.8% (116/509). After adjusting for covariates, depression (odds ratio [OR] = 1.384), emotional distress (OR = 1.107), upset (OR = 0.842), and forgetfulness (OR = 1.236) were identified as significant independent risk factors (all p < 0.05). The ORs indicate that depression and distress have the strongest associations with SI. Health status has a significant indirect effect (OR=-0.044, p = 0.005) and a strong total effect (OR=-0.485, p < 0.001) on SI, mediated by insomnia severity and emotional distress. CONCLUSIONS There is a high SI prevalence among Chinese patients with advanced breast cancer. Our analysis revealed predictive pathways from poor health to heightened SI, mediated by emotional distress and insomnia. Regular management of distress and insomnia can decrease suicide risk in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yening Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Yi He
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Pang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongge Su
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Breast Cancer Radiotherapy, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yuhe Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Yongkui Lu
- The Fifth Department of Chemotherapy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Yu Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinkun Han
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Lihua Song
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Liping Wang
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zimeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Lv
- Department of Oncology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Xiamen, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Juntao Yao
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- Department of Clinical Spiritual Care, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhou
- Radiotherapy Center, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuangzhi He
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Song
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Jinjiang Li
- Department of Psycho-oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Bingmei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Tang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Psycho-oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital &Institute, Fu-Cheng Road 52, Hai-Dian District, 100142, Beijing, China.
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Marzetti H, McDaid L, O'Connor R. A qualitative study of young people's lived experiences of suicide and self-harm: intentionality, rationality and authenticity. Child Adolesc Ment Health 2023; 28:504-511. [PMID: 36811313 DOI: 10.1111/camh.12641] [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] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide is a leading cause of death amongst young people and a major public health concern. Although increasing research has identified contributory and protective factors affecting youth suicide, less is known about how young people make sense of suicidal distress themselves. METHODS Using semi-structured interview methods and reflexive thematic analysis, this study explores how 24 young people aged 16-24 in Scotland, UK made sense of their lived experiences of suicidal thoughts and feelings, self-harm, and suicide attempts. RESULTS Intentionality, rationality, and authenticity formed our central themes. Suicidal thoughts were categorised by participants dependent on their intention to act on them; a distinction often used to downplay the significance of early suicidal thoughts. Escalating suicidal feelings were then described as almost rational responses to adversities; whereas suicide attempts appeared to be described as more impulsive. These narratives seemed to be somewhat shaped by dismissive attitudes participants experienced in response to their suicidal distress, both from professionals and within their close networks. This impacted how participants articulated distress and asked for support. CONCLUSION Suicidal thoughts that participants articulated as lacking the intention to act could represent key opportunities for early clinical intervention to prevent suicide. In contrast, stigma, difficulties communicating suicidal distress and dismissive attitudes could serve as barriers to seeking help, and, therefore, additional efforts should be made to ensure young people feel comfortable seeking help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazel Marzetti
- School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lisa McDaid
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- The University of Queensland Australia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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5
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Spears AP, Gratch I, Nam RJ, Goger P, Cha CB. Future Directions in Understanding and Interpreting Discrepant Reports of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors Among Youth. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2023; 52:134-146. [PMID: 36473063 PMCID: PMC9898197 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2022.2145567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Both the quality and utility of youth suicide research depend on how we assess our outcomes of interest: suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs). We now have access to more STB assessments than ever before, with measures for youth that vary in what exact experiences are asked about, how such measures elicit information, when and how frequently measures are administered, and who the informants are. This growing armamentarium of assessments has the potential to improve the study and treatment of STBs among youth, but it hinges on meaningful interpretation of assessment responses. Interpretation can be especially challenging when different STB assessments yield conflicting information. Determining how to manage discrepant reports of STBs is a pivotal step toward achieving meaningfully comprehensive STB assessment batteries. Here, we outline several discrepant reporting patterns that have been detected, discuss the potential significance of these observed discrepancies, and present initial steps to formally investigate discrepant reports of STBs among youth. Developing coherent, interpretable, and comprehensive batteries assessing STBs among youth would address a fundamental step to uncovering etiology, improving clinical decision-making and case management, informing intervention development, and tracking prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Page Spears
- Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University
| | - Ilana Gratch
- Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University
| | - Rachel J Nam
- Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University
| | - Pauline Goger
- Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University
| | - Christine B Cha
- Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University
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6
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Emre Taçyıldız A, Çekmen B, Uzun A, Cevher Çiftçi T, Berkay Uzuncu H, Serdar S, Üçer M. A retrospective analysis of spinal and cranial injury patterns caused by a fall from a tree in the Karabük province. INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2022.101628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
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Polihronis C, Cloutier P, Kaur J, Skinner R, Cappelli M. What's the harm in asking? A systematic review and meta-analysis on the risks of asking about suicide-related behaviors and self-harm with quality appraisal. Arch Suicide Res 2022; 26:325-347. [PMID: 32715986 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2020.1793857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Research emphasizes the importance of asking about suicidality. Unfortunately, misperceptions of harm remain which can compromise clinical care, research, and public health surveillance efforts. Our objective was to evaluate the empirical evidence on whether and how asking about suicide related behaviors (SRB), such as suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) results in harmful outcomes. We reviewed and rated seventeen studies and conducted a systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis on eight studies comparing those asked vs. not asked on immediate and later SRB, NSSI, and psychological distress (PD). Forest plots demonstrated no statistically significant effects of asking on SRB, NSSI, or PD. Eight RCTs provided the strongest evidence and demonstrated either low or unclear risk of bias, and the remaining cohort studies were of low to moderate quality. With the current available evidence, we found no harmful outcomes of asking, however more RCTs with a low risk of bias are required to firmly conclude that asking through self-report and interview methods does not further exacerbate distress, SRB and NSSI compared to those not asked.
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Risk and Protective Factors in Adolescent Suicidal Behaviour: A Network Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031784. [PMID: 35162805 PMCID: PMC8834911 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Given that death by suicide continues to rank among the top three causes of death during adolescence, new psychological models may contribute critical insight towards understanding the complex interactions between risk and protective factors in suicidal behaviour. The main objective of this study was to analyse the psychological network structure of suicidal behaviour and putative risk and protective factors in school-aged adolescents. Methods: Stratified random cluster sampling was performed. The final sample comprised 1790 students (53.7% female, M = 15.7 years, SD = 1.26). Instruments were administered to assess suicidal behaviour, emotional and behavioural difficulties, prosocial behaviour, subjective well-being, self-esteem, depressive symptomatology, academic performance, socio-economic status, school engagement, bullying, and cyberbullying. Results: In the estimated psychological network, the node with the highest strength was depressive symptomatology, and that with the highest expected influence value was bullying. Suicidal behaviour was positively connected to symptoms of depression and behavioural problems. In addition, suicidal behaviour was negatively connected to self-esteem and personal well-being. The results of the stability analysis indicated that the network was accurately estimated. Conclusions: Suicidal behaviour can be conceptualised as a dynamic, complex system of cognitive, emotional, and affective characteristics. New psychological models allow us to analyse and understand human behaviour from a new perspective, suggesting new forms of conceptualisation, evaluation, intervention, and prevention.
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Al-Halabí S, Fonseca-Pedrero E. Suicidal Behavior Prevention: The Time to Act is Now. CLÍNICA Y SALUD 2021. [DOI: 10.5093/clysa2021a17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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10
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Ford J, Thomas F, Byng R, McCabe R. Asking about self-harm and suicide in primary care: Moral and practical dimensions. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:826-835. [PMID: 33162274 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Self-harm and suicide are important topics to discuss with people experiencing mental health conditions. This study explores how such discussions unfold in practice, and how their moral and practical repercussions manifest for patients and doctors. METHODS Conversation analysis (CA) was used to examine 20 recorded examples of doctors' questions about self-harm and suicide and their ensuing discussions with patients. RESULTS A tendency to frame questions about self-harm towards a 'no' response, to amalgamate questions around self-harm and suicide, and to limit dialogue around the protective factors offered by family and friends restricted discussion of patients' experiences and concerns. Closed questions about thoughts and actions in the context of risk assessment resulted in missed opportunities to validate distressing thoughts. Patients responding affirmatively often did so in a way that distanced themselves from the negative stigma associated with suicide. CONCLUSION The wording of questions, along with negative stigma, can make it difficult for patients to talk about self-harm. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Discussions could be improved by asking about self-harm and suicide separately, encouraging discussion when responses are ambiguous and validating distressing thoughts. Negative stigma could be countered by exploring patients' positive reasons for wanting to stay alive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Ford
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, UK.
| | | | | | - Rose McCabe
- School of Health Sciences, City University of London, UK.
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11
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Picard EH, Rosenfeld B. How Clinicians Incorporate Suicide Risk Factors Into Suicide Risk Assessment. CRISIS 2020; 42:100-106. [PMID: 32431198 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: The literature has focused on explicit communications of suicidal ideation, although such communications are infrequent and less overt symptoms are comparable indicators of suicide risk. Aims: Our aim was to understand how clinicians consider inexplicit suicide risk factors in assessments of risk. Method: A national sample of 75 psychiatric crisis clinicians were provided with three vignettes, which varied in nine variables related to suicide risk. Clinicians rated imminent suicide risk and identified an appropriate level of care for each hypothetical patient. Results: Prior suicide attempt, intent to die, presence of a suicide plan, desire to die, hopelessness, burdensomeness, and passive suicidal ideation (defined as a combination of hopelessness, burdensomeness, desire to die, and anhedonia) significantly impacted risk perception while depression and anhedonia did not. Level of care was significantly associated with passive suicidal ideation, suicide plan, desire to die, and hopelessness. Limitations: Limitations of the study include its small sample size, experienced clinicians, and reliance on hypothetical patients. The study design did not allow for all variables to be compared against one another. Conclusion: Clinicians considered less overt risk factors for suicide when assessing risk. Future research should examine whether this knowledge is applied in real-life scenarios and if less experienced clinicians equally consider these risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie H Picard
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Barry Rosenfeld
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
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Carter SP, Ammerman BA, Gebhardt HM, Buchholz J, Reger MA. Participant Reactions to Suicide-Focused Research. CRISIS 2020; 41:367-374. [PMID: 32036704 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Background: Concerns exist regarding the perceived risks of conducting suicide-focused research among an acutely distressed population. Aims: The current study assessed changes in participant distress before and after participation in a suicide-focused research study conducted on a psychiatric inpatient unit. Method: Participants included 37 veterans who were receiving treatment on a psychiatric inpatient unit and completed a survey-based research study focused on suicide-related behaviors and experiences. Results: Participants reported no significant changes in self-reported distress. The majority of participants reported unchanged or decreased distress. Reviews of electronic medical records revealed no behavioral dysregulation and minimal use of as-needed medications or changes in mood following participation. Limitations: The study's small sample size and veteran population may limit generalizability. Conclusion: Findings add to research conducted across a variety of settings (i.e., outpatient, online, laboratory), indicating that participating in suicide-focused research is not significantly associated with increased distress or suicide risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah P Carter
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Brooke A Ammerman
- Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | | | - Jonathan Buchholz
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Mark A Reger
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Heinz A, Catunda C, van Duin C, Willems H. Suicide prevention: Using the number of health complaints as an indirect alternative for screening suicidal adolescents. J Affect Disord 2020; 260:61-66. [PMID: 31493640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide is the second leading cause of death in adolescents. Screening for persons at risk usually includes asking about suicidal ideation, which is considered inappropriate in some societies and situations. To avoid directly addressing suicide, this paper investigates whether the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children Symptom Checklist (HBSC-SCL), a validated non-clinical measure of eight subjective health complaints (e.g. headache, feeling low), could be used as a tool for screening suicidal ideation and behavior in adolescents. METHODS 5262 secondary school students aged 12-18 answered the Luxembourgish HBSC 2014 survey, including the HBSC-SCL items and suicidal ideation and behavior questions. RESULTS Each HBSC-SCL item correlates with suicidal ideation and behavior. A sum score was calculated ranging from zero to eight health complaints to predict respondents who considered suicide (area under the ROC curve = 0.770). The ideal cut-off for screening students who consider suicide is three or more health complaints: sensitivity is 66.3%, specificity is 75.9% and positive predictive value is 32.9%. LIMITATIONS One limitation is HBSC-SCL's low positive predictive value. This is a general problem of screening rare events: the lower the prevalence, the lower the positive predictive value. Sensitivity and specificity could be improved by taking age-, gender- and country-specific cut-off values, but such refinements would make the score calculation more complicated. CONCLUSIONS The HBSC-SCL is short, easy to use, with satisfactory screening properties. The checklist can be used when suicide cannot be addressed directly, and also in a more general context, e.g. by school nurses when screening adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Heinz
- Research Unit INSIDE, University of Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | | | | | - Helmut Willems
- Research Unit INSIDE, University of Luxembourg, Luxembourg
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Hunt T, Wilson CJ, Woodward A, Caputi P, Wilson I. Intervention among Suicidal Men: Future Directions for Telephone Crisis Support Research. Front Public Health 2018; 6:1. [PMID: 29404319 PMCID: PMC5780337 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Telephone crisis support is a confidential, accessible, and immediate service that is uniquely set up to reduce male suicide deaths through crisis intervention. However, research focusing on telephone crisis support with suicidal men is currently limited. To highlight the need to address service delivery for men experiencing suicidal crisis, this perspective article identifies key challenges facing current telephone crisis support research and proposes that understanding of the role of telephone crisis helplines in supporting suicidal men may be strengthened by careful examination of the context of telephone crisis support, together with the impact this has on help-provision for male suicidal callers. In particular, the impact of the time- and information-poor context of telephone crisis support on crisis-line staff's identification of, and response to, male callers with thoughts of suicide is examined. Future directions for research in the provision of telephone crisis support for suicidal men are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Hunt
- School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Mental Illness in Nowra District: Goals and Prevention (MINDtheGaP), Nowra, NSW, Australia
| | - Coralie J Wilson
- School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Mental Illness in Nowra District: Goals and Prevention (MINDtheGaP), Nowra, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alan Woodward
- Centre for Mental Illness in Nowra District: Goals and Prevention (MINDtheGaP), Nowra, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Lifeline Research Foundation, Lifeline Australia, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Suicide Prevention Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Caputi
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Ian Wilson
- School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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Favril L, Vander Laenen F, Vandeviver C, Audenaert K. Suicidal ideation while incarcerated: Prevalence and correlates in a large sample of male prisoners in Flanders, Belgium. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW AND PSYCHIATRY 2017; 55:19-28. [PMID: 29157508 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Prisoners constitute a high-risk group for suicide. As an early stage in the pathway leading to suicide, suicidal ideation represents an important target for prevention, yet research on this topic is scarce in general prison populations. Using a cross-sectional survey design, correlates of suicidal ideation while incarcerated were examined in a sample of 1203 male prisoners, randomly selected from 15 Flemish prisons. Overall, a lifetime history of suicidal ideation and attempts was endorsed by 43.1% and 20.3% of respondents, respectively. Approximately a quarter of all prisoners (23.7%) reported past-year suicidal ideation during their current incarceration, which was significantly associated with both imported vulnerabilities (psychiatric diagnoses and a history of attempted suicide) and variables unique to the prison experience (lack of working activity, exposure to suicidal behaviour by peers, and low levels of perceived autonomy, safety and social support) in the multivariate regression analysis. A first-ever period of imprisonment and a shorter length of incarceration (≤12months) were also associated with increased odds of recent suicidal ideation. Collectively, the current findings underscore the importance of both vulnerability factors and prison-specific stressors for suicidal ideation in prisoners, and hence the need for a multi-faceted approach to suicide prevention in custodial settings. In addition to the provision of appropriate mental health care, environmental interventions that target modifiable aspects of the prison regime could provide a substantial buffer for the onset and persistence of suicidal ideation in this at-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Favril
- Institute for International Research on Criminal Policy (IRCP), Faculty of Law and Criminology, Ghent University, Belgium.
| | - Freya Vander Laenen
- Institute for International Research on Criminal Policy (IRCP), Faculty of Law and Criminology, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Christophe Vandeviver
- Institute for International Research on Criminal Policy (IRCP), Faculty of Law and Criminology, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Kurt Audenaert
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium
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