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LaMontagne AD, Åberg M, Blomqvist S, Glozier N, Greiner BA, Gullestrup J, Harvey SB, Kyron MJ, Madsen IEH, Hanson LM, Maheen H, Mustard C, Niedhammer I, Rugulies R, Smith PM, Taouk Y, Waters S, Witt K, King TL. Work-related suicide: Evolving understandings of etiology & intervention. Am J Ind Med 2024. [PMID: 38853462 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Previously published analyses of suicide case investigations suggest that work or working conditions contribute to 10%-13% of suicide deaths. Yet, the way in which work may increase suicide risk is an underdeveloped area of epidemiologic research. In this Commentary, we propose a definition of work-related suicide from an occupational health and safety perspective, and review the case investigation-based and epidemiologic evidence on work-related causes of suicide. We identified six broad categories of potential work-related causes of suicide, which are: (1) workplace chemical, physical, and psychosocial exposures; (2) exposure to trauma on the job; (3) access to means of suicide through work; (4) exposure to high-stigma work environments; (5) exposure to normative environments promoting extreme orientation to work; and (6) adverse experiences arising from work-related injury or illness. We summarise current evidence in a schema of potential work-related causes that can also be applied in workplace risk assessment and suicide case investigations. There are numerous implications of these findings for policy and practice. Various principle- and evidence-based workplace intervention strategies for suicide prevention exist, some of which have been shown to improve suicide-prevention literacy, reduce stigma, enhance helping behaviours, and in some instances maybe even reduce suicide rates. Prevailing practice in workplace suicide prevention, however, overly emphasises individual- and illness-directed interventions, with little attention directed to addressing the working conditions that may increase suicide risk. We conclude that a stronger emphasis on improving working conditions will be required for workplace suicide prevention to reach its full preventive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony D LaMontagne
- Institute for Health Transformation & School of Health & Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria Åberg
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sandra Blomqvist
- Department of Psychology, Stress Research Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nick Glozier
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Jorgen Gullestrup
- Institute for Health Transformation & School of Health & Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Samuel B Harvey
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael J Kyron
- Suicide Prevention and Resilience Research Center (SPARRC), School of Psychological Science, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ida E H Madsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- National Institute of Public Health, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Linda Magnusson Hanson
- Department of Psychology, Stress Research Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Humaira Maheen
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Isabelle Niedhammer
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Univ Angers, Angers, France
| | - Reiner Rugulies
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Section of Epidemiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter M Smith
- Instutute for Work & Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yamna Taouk
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Waters
- School of Languages, Cultures and Societies, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Katrina Witt
- Orygen Centre for Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tania L King
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Abraham KM, Dent KR, Resnick SG, McCarthy JF, Zivin K. Associations of Mortality Outcomes With Employment Status at Discharge From VA Vocational Rehabilitation Service Programs. Psychiatr Serv 2024:appips20230489. [PMID: 38693833 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.20230489] [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] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors evaluated associations between employment at discharge from Veterans Health Administration Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VR) programs and suicide and other causes of death. METHODS For veterans receiving VR between October 1, 2005, and September 30, 2014 (N=78,293), proportional hazards analyses were used to test associations of employment with suicide, drug overdose, and external and natural cause mortality rates over 1 and 5 years postdischarge and through December 31, 2019. The analyses were adjusted for clinical and sociodemographic characteristics and propensity for employment. RESULTS Of the veterans, 94.1% had a psychiatric diagnosis, and 35.5% were employed at VR discharge. In proportional hazards analyses, employment was associated with lower mortality rates through 1 year (suicide, hazard ratio [HR]=0.54; overdose, HR=0.70; external causes, HR=0.62; and natural causes, HR=0.51) and 5 years postdischarge (overdose, HR=0.72; external causes, HR=0.81; and natural causes, HR=0.72). Through December 31, 2019, employment was associated with lower risks for overdose (HR=0.80) and death by external (HR=0.81) and natural (HR=0.80) causes. CONCLUSIONS Employment at VR discharge was associated with lower mortality risk among veterans with psychiatric diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M Abraham
- Serious Mental Illness Treatment Resource and Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Ann Arbor (Abraham, Dent, McCarthy); Department of Psychology, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit (Abraham); Northeast Program Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, West Haven, Connecticut (Resnick); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven (Resnick); Suicide Prevention Program, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, Washington, D.C. (McCarthy); Center for Clinical Management Research, VA, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor (Zivin)
| | - Kallisse R Dent
- Serious Mental Illness Treatment Resource and Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Ann Arbor (Abraham, Dent, McCarthy); Department of Psychology, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit (Abraham); Northeast Program Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, West Haven, Connecticut (Resnick); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven (Resnick); Suicide Prevention Program, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, Washington, D.C. (McCarthy); Center for Clinical Management Research, VA, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor (Zivin)
| | - Sandra G Resnick
- Serious Mental Illness Treatment Resource and Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Ann Arbor (Abraham, Dent, McCarthy); Department of Psychology, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit (Abraham); Northeast Program Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, West Haven, Connecticut (Resnick); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven (Resnick); Suicide Prevention Program, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, Washington, D.C. (McCarthy); Center for Clinical Management Research, VA, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor (Zivin)
| | - John F McCarthy
- Serious Mental Illness Treatment Resource and Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Ann Arbor (Abraham, Dent, McCarthy); Department of Psychology, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit (Abraham); Northeast Program Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, West Haven, Connecticut (Resnick); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven (Resnick); Suicide Prevention Program, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, Washington, D.C. (McCarthy); Center for Clinical Management Research, VA, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor (Zivin)
| | - Kara Zivin
- Serious Mental Illness Treatment Resource and Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Ann Arbor (Abraham, Dent, McCarthy); Department of Psychology, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit (Abraham); Northeast Program Evaluation Center, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, West Haven, Connecticut (Resnick); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven (Resnick); Suicide Prevention Program, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, VA, Washington, D.C. (McCarthy); Center for Clinical Management Research, VA, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor (Zivin)
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Park GR. Socioeconomic inequalities in deaths of despair: Age heterogeneity in Canada's working age population. Prev Med 2024; 181:107920. [PMID: 38423303 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.107920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although prior literature documented socioeconomic inequalities in deaths of despair among working age population, it is unclear whether and how (a) the link between socioeconomic status and deaths of despair differs by age (b) each measure of socioeconomic status has independent effects on deaths of despair. This study aims to reduce these knowledge gaps. METHODS Using data from a large scale nationally representative linked dataset (2011 Canadian Census Health and Environment Cohorts), this study employed Fine-Gray subdistribution hazard models to estimate the link between socioeconomic status and deaths of despair due to suicide, drug overdose, and alcoholic liver disease among working age population (N = 4,076,530). Age stratified analysis was conducted to examine age heterogeneity. RESULTS Socioeconomic status, such as housing tenure, employment status, household income, and education level, was associated with deaths of despair among working age population. Age differences in the association between socioeconomic status and deaths of despair were found. While education level was pronounced for deaths of despair for younger adults, a combination of socioeconomic status was significantly associated with deaths of despair for those in late adulthood. CONCLUSIONS Socioeconomic inequalities in deaths of despair are manifest among Canadian working age population. This study lends support the social and health policies aimed at reducing gaps in mortalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gum-Ryeong Park
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Health, Aging & Society, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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Cho S, Lee K. Association between insurance type and suicide-related behavior among US adults: The impact of the Affordable Care Act. Psychiatry Res 2024; 333:115714. [PMID: 38219348 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
This study examined the association between insurance type and suicidal ideation and attempts among adults in the United States, incorporating a comparative analysis of the pre- and post-Affordable Care Act (ACA) periods. We used a nationally representative, cross-sectional, population-based survey of individuals aged 18 years and older from the 2010-2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts among Medicaid and uninsured groups compared with those with private insurance. After implementation of the ACA policy, the difference-in-differences analysis showed a significantly reduced risk of suicide in the Medicare group compared with the privately insured group, with no significant differences observed in the other groups. These findings highlight the importance of improving access to mental health services, particularly for those with lower levels of insurance coverage, such as Medicaid and Medicare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungwon Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Hanyang Universtiy Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Health Policy and Management, Graduate School of Public Health, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kounseok Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Hanyang Universtiy Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Hu D, Comben C, Diminic S, Pagliaro C. Review of Australia's funding commitments for suicide prevention from 2021-22 to 2026-27. AUST HEALTH REV 2024; 48:45-51. [PMID: 38105034 DOI: 10.1071/ah23176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective Examine the distribution of funding for suicide prevention in Australia from 2021-22 to 2026-27. Methods Government websites were reviewed to locate budget documents related to suicide prevention funding. Information was extracted on the program/service to be funded, and the funder entity, duration, and year allocation. Extracted data was reviewed to identify commonly targeted sub-populations. Results The majority of suicide prevention-related funding was allocated to aftercare for persons who have attempted suicide, consistent with the effectiveness of these services, followed by programs targeting the general population. Little funding was allocated to other specific sub-populations, such as young people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The amount of funding allocated to suicide prevention varied across jurisdictions, which is only partially explained by suicide rates. Conclusions There is a need for greater investment in care for specific sub-populations who are at higher risk of suicide. This study provides a baseline for comparing future investments in suicide prevention in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Hu
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; and Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Charlotte Comben
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; and Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Sandra Diminic
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; and Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Claudia Pagliaro
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia; and Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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Piñeiro B, Spijker JJA, Trias-Llimós S, Blanes Llorens A, Permanyer I. Trends in cause-specific mortality: deaths of despair in Spain, 1980-2019. J Public Health (Oxf) 2023; 45:854-862. [PMID: 37491646 PMCID: PMC10687877 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdad133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research from various countries has shown increases in alcohol- and drug-related deaths and suicide, known as 'deaths of despair' over recent decades, particularly among low-educated middle-aged individuals. However, little is known about trends in death-of-despair causes in Spain. Therefore, we aim to descriptively examine this among 25-64-year-olds from 1980 to 2019 and by educational attainment for the years 2017-19. METHODS We obtained mortality and population data from the National Institute of Statistics to estimate age-standardized mortality rates and assess educational inequalities using the relative index of inequality (RII). RESULTS Deaths of despair as a share of total mortality slightly increased from 2000 onwards, particularly among 25-64-year-old men (from 9 to 10%). Only alcohol-related mortality declined relatively more since 1980 compared with all-cause mortality. Regarding educational differences, low-educated men presented higher mortality rates in all death-of-despair causes (alcohol-related: RII 3.54 (95% CI: 2.21-5.66); drug-related: RII 3.49 (95% CI: 1.80-6.77); suicide: RII 1.97 (95% CI: 1.49-2.61)). Women noteworthy differences were only observed for alcohol-related (RII 3.50 (95% CI: 2.13-5.75)). CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest an increasing proportion of deaths of despair among 25-64-year-olds since 2000, particularly among men. Public health policies are needed to reduce and prevent these premature and preventable causes of mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Piñeiro
- Centre d’Estudis Demogràfics, Centres de Recerca de Catalunya (CERCA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra/Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jeroen J A Spijker
- Centre d’Estudis Demogràfics, Centres de Recerca de Catalunya (CERCA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra/Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergi Trias-Llimós
- Centre d’Estudis Demogràfics, Centres de Recerca de Catalunya (CERCA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra/Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amand Blanes Llorens
- Centre d’Estudis Demogràfics, Centres de Recerca de Catalunya (CERCA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra/Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iñaki Permanyer
- Centre d’Estudis Demogràfics, Centres de Recerca de Catalunya (CERCA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra/Barcelona, Spain
- ICREA, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
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Stevenson BJ, Calixte RM, Peckham AD, Degeis M, Teravainen TS, Chamberlin ES, Mueller L. Preventing job loss and functional decline: Description and demonstration of the Veterans Health Administration supported Employment: Engage and Keep (SEEK) program. Psychol Serv 2023:2024-23610-001. [PMID: 37956056 PMCID: PMC11089479 DOI: 10.1037/ser0000809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The high incidence of untreated mental health concerns among veterans can harm other areas of life, including employment. Loss of employment can lead to other adverse outcomes, such as financial instability, functional decline, and increased risk for suicide. Current Veterans Health Administration (VHA) vocational services are limited in that they primarily serve veterans who are unemployed and already enrolled in VHA. There is a need to prevent job loss among veterans who are struggling with mental health and vocational concerns and are not accessing VHA services, thus decreasing the risk of suicide and more costly interventions. Consistent with the existing national VHA initiatives on increasing access to health care and preventing suicide, a novel work-based intervention, Supported Employment: Engage and Keep (SEEK), was created. Building on the supported employment framework, SEEK assertively outreaches to already employed veterans by collaborating with workplaces that employ veterans. SEEK providers build rapport with employers and veterans and become a trusted VHA resource. SEEK engages veterans, facilitates enrollment in needed health care, and provides needed job maintenance support. This article outlines the SEEK model and provides a case demonstration and analysis of the course of SEEK care provided to a veteran at risk of losing their job. Clinical recommendations for implementing SEEK and future directions for evaluating this model are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Stevenson
- VA Bedford Healthcare System, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital
| | - Rachelle M Calixte
- VA Bedford Healthcare System, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital
| | - Andrew D Peckham
- VA Bedford Healthcare System, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital
| | - Michael Degeis
- VA Bedford Healthcare System, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital
| | - Taina S Teravainen
- VA Bedford Healthcare System, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital
| | | | - Lisa Mueller
- VA Bedford Healthcare System, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital
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Az A, Orhan C, Sogut O. Suicide attempts and the factors that lead to suicidal ideation: A 3-year analysis. North Clin Istanb 2023; 10:745-753. [PMID: 38328720 PMCID: PMC10846586 DOI: 10.14744/nci.2023.81598] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We explored the epidemiological characteristics of suicide attempts and identified suicide trends and associated factors. METHODS This retrospective, cross-sectional, observational, and single-center study included consecutive 412 patients who were admitted to Emergency Department for follow-up and treatment after a suicide attempt between June 2019 and June 2022. We assessed patient demographics, suicidal behavior, previous suicide attempts, psychiatric disorders, drug use, visits to the psychiatry clinic within the past 6 months, the persistence of suicidal ideation, and clinical outcomes. RESULTS The study population consisted of 259 females (62.86%) and 153 males (37.14%), with a mean age of 29.50±11.51 (range: 13-72) years. Females attempted suicide more often than males, but suicide completion was more common in males. Overall, 79.37% (n=327) of the suicide attempters were aged <40 years and most were 20-29 years old (n=147, 35.68%). Non-fatal suicide attempts were more common in single, unemployed, and poorly educated individuals, but this was not the case for suicide completers. However, there was no significant difference in marital status, education, and occupation among suicide completers. Drug poisoning was the major form of suicide attempt (n=345, 83.74%). Mental disorders, family or relationship conflicts, and separation from a partner were common causes of suicidal ideation. Patient numbers were particularly high in the autumn (i.e., September), and at night. CONCLUSION Females, young adults, singletons, the unemployed, and individuals with psychiatric disorders and low education levels are more likely to attempt suicide, particularly during hours when they are likely to be alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adem Az
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate Beylikduzu Public Hospital, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Cigdem Orhan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate Beylikduzu Public Hospital, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Ozgur Sogut
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkiye
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Lee WC, Chen CL, Pan YJ. Correlates of anxiety and depressive symptoms in inpatients with COVID-19 in Taiwan. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20679. [PMID: 37842555 PMCID: PMC10568106 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Inpatients with COVID-19 may experience high levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms during the pandemic. No prior study has examined these symptoms with COVID-19 inpatients in Taiwan. Using data from a tertiary hospital in Northern Taiwan, we investigated anxiety and depressive symptoms and the associated sociodemographic or clinical characteristics in these patients. Methods Data of anxiety and depressive symptoms by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) as well as the sociodemographic and clinical correlates were retrospectively retrieved and analyzed for COVID-19 patients admitted to Far Eastern Memorial Hospital from June 4 to June 28, 2021. Results In total, 152 patients with COVID-19 were included. Among all the COVID-19 inpatients, 9.9 % (n = 15) had an HADS anxiety score of ≥8 and 7.2 % (n = 11) had an HADS depression score of ≥8. COVID-19 inpatients with HADS anxiety score ≥8 or HADS depression score ≥8 were found to have a longer length of hospital stay compared to the respective comparison group. The female patients, patients aged >55 years, and patients hospitalized for >15 days had significantly higher anxiety scores than did the corresponding comparison groups. Conclusion COVID-19 inpatients with either anxiety or depression were associated with longer length of hospital stay. Age, sex, and hospitalization length were found to be associated with anxiety symptoms in inpatients with COVID-19. Future studies are warranted to elucidate differential mechanisms potentially related to anxiety and depressive symptoms in patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chen Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Lin Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Center for General Education, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ju Pan
- Department of Psychiatry, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
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Tyler S, Hunkin H, Pusey K, Gunn K, Clifford B, Procter N. Suicide in the Construction Industry: A Targeted Meta-analysis. Arch Suicide Res 2023; 27:1134-1146. [PMID: 36229995 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2022.2131488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE With research suggesting an increased risk of suicide for those employed in the construction industry the present review aimed to provide an updated, targeted, and rigorous estimate of the relative risk of suicide for this population. METHOD Comprehensive searches of Medline, Psycinfo, Embase, Emcare, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, as well as grey literature and reference lists, were undertaken to identify studies which reported the rate or risk of construction industry workers' suicide. Only samples that did not incorporate other industries and utilized reference groups deemed representative of the general or employed populations, were included. RESULTS Eleven studies were included in the review. Primary analysis was undertaken on seven studies deemed to have wholly samples wholly representative of the construction industry. Despite a high level of heterogeneity (I2 = 98%), results suggest increased risk of construction worker suicide compared to the wider population. Random effect meta-analysis indicated a pooled relative suicide risk = 1.25 (95% CI 1.03-1.52), reported. A sensitivity analysis using less stringent inclusion criteria, demonstrated the robustness of these findings. CONCLUSION Despite limitations, this paper suggests that construction industry employees may have an elevated risk of suicide. Additionally, this review highlights the need for further research, using standardized methodologies, to generate more robust understandings. Future research will benefit by accounting for locale-specific cultural and socio-political factors and attempting to quantify more specific drivers of suicide risk for this population.
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11
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Øien-Ødegaard C, Hauge LJ, Stene-Larsen K, Christiansen STG, Bjertness E, Reneflot A. Widening the knowledge of non-employment as a risk factor for suicide: a Norwegian register-based population study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1181. [PMID: 37337178 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16084-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a known association between employment status and suicide risk. However, both reason for non-employment and the duration affects the relationship. These factors are investigated to a lesser extent. About one third of the Norwegian working age population are not currently employed. Due to the share size of this population even a small increase in suicide risk is of importance, and hence increased knowledge about this group is needed. METHODS We used discrete time event history analysis to examine the relationship between suicide risk and non-employment due to either unemployment or health-problems, and the duration of these non-employment periods. We analyze data from the Norwegian population registry from 2004 to 2014, which includes all Norwegian residents in the ages 19-58 born between 1952 and 1989. In total the data consists of 1 063 052 men and 1 024 238 women, and 2 039 suicides. RESULTS The suicide risk among the non-employed men and women is significantly higher than that of the employed. For the unemployed men, the suicide risk is significantly higher than the employed within the first 18 months. For the unemployed women we only find a significant association with suicide risk among those unemployed for six to twelve months. The suicide risk is especially increased among those with temporary health-related benefits. In the second year of health-related non-employment men have eightfold and women over twelvefold the OR for suicide, compared to the employed. CONCLUSION There is an association between non-employment and suicide risk. Compared to the employed both unemployed men and men and women with health-related non-employment have elevated suicide risk, and the duration of non-employment may be the driving force. Considering the large share of the working age population that are not employed, non-employment status should be considered in suicide risk assessment by health care professionals and welfare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carine Øien-Ødegaard
- Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Lars Johan Hauge
- Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kim Stene-Larsen
- Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Espen Bjertness
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (Department of Health and Society), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Reneflot
- Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Taylor P, Gringart E, Adams C. Psychological Effects Of Unemployment Across The Lifespan: A Synthesis Of Relevant Literature. J Aging Soc Policy 2023; 35:154-178. [PMID: 36368775 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2022.2136918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Amid ongoing global economic uncertainty and long-standing efforts to tackle age discrimination and increase older workers' labor force engagement, it is pertinent to consider age differences in the individual effects of joblessness. This is paramount for informing support services, policy formulation, and research. This article is based on a literature review of international peer reviewed quantitative research that has examined the relationship between age, psychological wellbeing and unemployment. Two hundred and twenty-six studies were screened and 36 were included. No relevant qualitative studies were identified. Among the studies, there was a broad consensus that there are age differences in terms of the psychological consequences of unemployment. However, they showed mixed evidence, and critical conceptual and methodological deficiencies were identified. We conclude that the body of evidence is weak and that drawing from it for the development of practice and policy in support of jobless individuals is to be cautioned against.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Taylor
- Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eyal Gringart
- School of Arts and Humanities, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Claire Adams
- School of Arts and Humanities, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Farmani A, Rahimianbougar M, Mohammadi Y, Faramarzi H, Khodarahimi S, Nahaboo S. Psychological, Structural, Social and Economic Determinants of Suicide Attempt: Risk Assessment and Decision Making Strategies. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023; 86:1144-1166. [PMID: 33736538 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211003462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this research was to conduct a risk assessment and management of psychological, structural, social and economic determinants (PSSED) in a suicide attempt. The sample consisted of 353 individuals who had a recorded history of suicidal attempt; and 20 professional individuals by purposive sampling method within a descriptive cross-sectional design. Worksheets for RAM and AHP were used for data collection in this study. The rate of suicide attempt was 7.21 per 100,000 population in this study. Analysis showed that depression and mental disorders; personality disorders; family problems; socio-cultural and economic problems; lack of awareness; and low level of education have a high level of risk for suicide attempts. Psychiatric and psychological services; awareness and knowledge of life skills; medical services to dysfunctional families; development of community-based planning for PSSED of suicide; and employment and entrepreneurship services may lower suicide attempt risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azam Farmani
- Social Emergency Center, Welfare General Bureau of Fars Province, Shiraz, Iran
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14
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Kandula S, Martinez-Alés G, Rutherford C, Gimbrone C, Olfson M, Gould MS, Keyes KM, Shaman J. County-level estimates of suicide mortality in the USA: a modelling study. Lancet Public Health 2023; 8:e184-e193. [PMID: 36702142 PMCID: PMC9990589 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(22)00290-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the USA and population risk prediction models can inform decisions on the type, location, and timing of public health interventions. We aimed to develop a prediction model to estimate county-level suicide risk in the USA using population characteristics. METHODS We obtained data on all deaths by suicide reported to the National Vital Statistics System between Jan 1, 2005, and Dec 31, 2019, and age, sex, race, and county of residence of the decedents were extracted to calculate baseline risk. We also obtained county-level annual measures of socioeconomic predictors of suicide risk (unemployment, weekly wage, poverty prevalence, median household income, and population density) and state-level prevalence of major depressive disorder and firearm ownership from US public sources. We applied conditional autoregressive models, which account for spatiotemporal autocorrelation in response and predictors, to estimate county-level suicide risk. FINDINGS Estimates derived from conditional autoregressive models were more accurate than from models not adjusted for spatiotemporal autocorrelation. Inclusion of suicide risk and protective covariates further reduced errors. Suicide risk was estimated to increase with each SD increase in firearm ownership (2·8% [95% credible interval (CrI) 1·8 to 3·9]), prevalence of major depressive episode (1·0% [0·4 to 1·5]), and unemployment rate (2·8% [1·9 to 3·8]). Conversely, risk was estimated to decrease by 4·3% (-5·1 to -3·2) for each SD increase in median household income and by 4·3% (-5·8 to -2·5) for each SD increase in population density. An increase in the heterogeneity in county-specific suicide risk was also observed during the study period. INTERPRETATION Area-level characteristics and the conditional autoregressive models can estimate population-level suicide risk. Availability of near real-time situational data are necessary for the translation of these models into a surveillance setting. Monitoring changes in population-level risk of suicide could help public health agencies select and deploy targeted interventions quickly. FUNDING US National Institute of Mental Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasikiran Kandula
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Gonzalo Martinez-Alés
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; CAUSALab, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Mental Health Network Biomedical Research Center, Madrid, Spain; Mental Health Research Group, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Mark Olfson
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Madelyn S Gould
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey Shaman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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15
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Turner BJ, Switzer AC, Welch BE, Legg NK, Gregory MA, Phiri P, Rathod S, Paterson TS. Psychological mediators of the associations between pandemic-related stressors and suicidal ideation across three periods of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. J Affect Disord 2023; 324:566-575. [PMID: 36584705 PMCID: PMC9794401 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.12.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic's mental health impact is well-established. While early evidence suggested suicide deaths remained stable or declined, suicidal ideation (SI) became more prevalent than before the pandemic. Our study: (1) examined the prevalence and distribution of SI among Canadian adults, (2) compared SI among those with and without pre-existing mental illnesses, and (3) evaluated associations between pandemic-related stressors (i.e., unemployment, insecure employment, loss of income, medical vulnerability, COVID-19 exposure) with SI, and whether such associations were mediated by depression, thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, or perceived discrimination. METHODS The sample was comprised of data gathered at three timepoints (Wave 1 08/18/2020-10/01/2020, n = 6629; Wave 2 12/21/2020-03/31/2021, n = 5920; Wave 3 09/07/2021-12/07/2021, n = 7354). Quota-based responses from survey research panels which matched the geographic, age, and sex distribution of the Canadian population were supplemented with convenience-sampled responses. RESULTS The prevalence of SI was 4.1 % (Wave 1), 5.3 % (Wave 2), and 5.8 % (Wave 3). Odds of SI were higher for respondents under the age of 35 years and with pre-existing mental illnesses. SI was associated with quarantining due to suspected or confirmed COVID-19 exposure, potential COVID-19 exposure at work, medical vulnerability toward COVID-19, insecure employment or unemployment, and income loss. These associations were mediated by psychological experiences, particularly depression and thwarted belongingness. LIMITATIONS This cross-sectional, observational study cannot establish temporality or causality. CONCLUSION Results highlight groups who may benefit from enhanced screening for depression and suicide risk. Reducing depression and increasing sense of belonging should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna J. Turner
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada,Corresponding author at: Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, PO Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Andrew C. Switzer
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Brooke E. Welch
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Nicole K. Legg
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | | | - Peter Phiri
- Research & Innovation Department, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK,School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Shanaya Rathod
- Research & Innovation Department, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK,Faculty of Science, University of Portsmouth, UK
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16
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Safaei Lari M, Emamgholipour Sefiddashti S. Socio-economic, health and environmental factors influencing suicide rates: A cross-country study in the Eastern Mediterranean region. J Forensic Leg Med 2023; 93:102463. [PMID: 36580881 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2022.102463] [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: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide is a crucial concern for public health in the world. To date, there is no synthesized evidence about the cross-country impact of suicide risk factors in the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO). This paper aims to cover the gap and assess socio-economic, health, and environmental (SHE) factors influencing suicide rates among the EMRO countries from 1990 to 2019. METHODS This analysis is a cross-sectional time-series design which uses random-effect panel data from 17 EMRO countries. SHE variables are inflation rate, economic growth, unemployment rate, urbanization, and female labor force participation rate, mental disorders prevalence and individuals using the internet. RESULTS The models indicate that male suicide rates was positively associated with inflation rate (coefficient = 0.002, p < 0.05) unemployment rate (0.06, p < 0.01), mental disorders prevalence (0.0008, p < 0.01), and urbanization (0.08, p < 0.05). Conversely, individuals using the internet (-0.019, p < 0.01) was related to a reduction in male suicide rates. Variables correlated with an increase in female suicide rates included inflation rate (0.001, p < 0.05), mental disorders prevalence (coefficient = 0.0004, p < 0.01) and urbanization (0.03, p < 0.01). Individuals using the internet (-0.006, p < 0.01) and education index (-4.8, p < 0.01) had negative effect on female suicide rates. CONCLUSIONS This research confirms that SHE factors appear to affect suicide. So policymakers should endeavor to control them if the nations are aimed at preventing suicides. Future researches are essential to scrutinize paradoxes in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Safaei Lari
- Department of Health Management and Economics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sara Emamgholipour Sefiddashti
- Department of Health Management and Economics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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17
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Janca E, Keen C, Willoughby M, Borschmann R, Sutherland G, Kwon S, Kinner SA. Sex differences in suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm after release from incarceration: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2023; 58:355-371. [PMID: 36462041 PMCID: PMC9971066 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-022-02390-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE People released from incarceration are at increased risk of suicide compared to the general population. We aimed to synthesise evidence on the incidence of and sex differences in suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm after release from incarceration. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science and PubMed between 1 January 1970 and 14 October 2021 for suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm after release from incarceration (PROSPERO registration: CRD42020208885). We calculated pooled crude mortality rates (CMRs) and standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) for suicide, overall and by sex, using random-effects models. We calculated a pooled incidence rate ratio (IRR) comparing rates of suicide by sex. RESULTS Twenty-nine studies were included. The pooled suicide CMR per 100,000 person years was 114.5 (95%CI 97.0, 132.0, I2 = 99.2%) for non-sex stratified samples, 139.5 (95% CI 91.3, 187.8, I2 = 88.6%) for women, and 121.8 (95% CI 82.4, 161.2, I2 = 99.1%) for men. The suicide SMR was 7.4 (95% CI 5.4, 9.4, I2 = 98.3%) for non-sex stratified samples, 14.9 for women (95% CI 6.7, 23.1, I2 = 88.3%), and 4.6 for men (95% CI 1.3, 7.8, I2 = 98.8%). The pooled suicide IRR comparing women to men was 1.1 (95% CI 0.9, 1.4, I2 = 82.2%). No studies reporting self-harm or suicidal ideation after incarceration reported sex differences. CONCLUSION People released from incarceration are greater than seven times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. The rate of suicide is higher after release than during incarceration, with the elevation in suicide risk (compared with the general population) three times higher for women than for men. Greater effort to prevent suicide after incarceration, particularly among women, is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Janca
- Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, 410 Koorliny Way, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia. .,Justice Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
| | - Claire Keen
- Justice Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC 3053 Australia
| | - Melissa Willoughby
- Justice Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC 3053 Australia ,Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia
| | - Rohan Borschmann
- Justice Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC 3053 Australia ,Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia ,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX UK ,Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Parkville, VIC Australia
| | - Georgina Sutherland
- Disability and Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC 3053 Australia
| | - Sohee Kwon
- Justice Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC 3053 Australia
| | - Stuart A. Kinner
- Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, 410 Koorliny Way, Bentley, WA 6102 Australia ,Justice Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, VIC 3053 Australia ,Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia ,Mater Research Institute-UQ, University of Queensland, Mater Hospital, Raymond Terrace, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Australia ,Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122 Australia ,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004 Australia
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18
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Scotti B. Late-Career Employment Trajectories and Postretirement Mortality: Evidence From Italy. Demography 2022; 59:2187-2213. [PMID: 36281959 DOI: 10.1215/00703370-10291269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In the last decades, the long-standing paradigm of life course theory postulating direct transition from lifetime employment to full retirement has been eroding in advanced economies. For many mature workers, the period between the end of stable employment and the attainment of eligibility requirements for accessing retirement benefits can be, in fact, quite discontinuous. Still, little is known about the health consequences of employment instability in later working life. This study addresses this issue by examining how late-career employment trajectories shape postretirement all-cause mortality. I use longitudinal register data from Italy to reconstruct the later-life employment history of a large sample of Italian retirees previously employed in the private sector for whom I can observe mortality up to 2018. I rely on sequence analysis to identify ideal-type, late-career trajectories and use them as further inputs for discrete-time survival analysis. Results show that going through a trajectory marked by employment instability in later working life is related to worse postretirement survival chances, with this relationship being stronger if unemployment spells are prolonged and not covered by social allowances. Given the current pressures to extend the length of working life, these findings highlight the relevance of policies aimed at improving the employment prospects of displaced senior workers and at ensuring adequate support in case of prolonged unemployment.
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Valenciano-Mendoza E, Fernández-Aranda F, Granero R, Vintró-Alcaraz C, Mora-Maltas B, Valero-Solís S, Sánchez I, Toro JJD, Gómez-Peña M, Moragas L, Jiménez-Murcia S. Common and differential risk factors behind suicidal behavior in patients with impulsivity-related disorders: The case of bulimic spectrum eating disorders and gambling disorder. J Behav Addict 2022; 11:963-978. [PMID: 36287739 PMCID: PMC9881661 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2022.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Mental disorders with high levels of impulsivity such as bulimic spectrum eating disorders (BSED) and gambling disorder (GD) are associated with high risk of suicidal behavior. The aim of the present study was to identify the common and differential vulnerability factors behind suicide attempts in a sample of patients with BSED compared to patients with GD. METHODS A total of 6,077 adults who sought treatment and met criteria either for BSED (n = 2,391) or GD (n = 3,686) were assessed at a specialized hospital unit. Personality traits, psychopathological symptomatology, lifetime history of suicide attempts and socio-demographic variables were evaluated. RESULTS The prevalence of suicide attempts was higher for BSED patients (26.2%) compared to GD patients (7.1%) being anorexia nervosa (Binge/Purge type) and bulimia nervosa the most affected subtypes. In the predictive model, the transdiagnostic vulnerability factors with the highest contribution to the risk of suicidal behavior both in BSED and GD were unemployment, early age of onset of the disorder, worse psychopathological state, and self-transcendence personality trait. However, specific risk factors for suicidal acts were identified in each disorder: longer duration of the disorder, lower education levels and reward dependence were exclusively associated with BSED while female gender, older age, and higher harm avoidance were associated with GD. DISCUSSION Patients with GD and BSED share certain vulnerability factors although certain factors are exclusive to each disorder. CONCLUSIONS Interventions need to pay special attention to both common and specific vulnerability factors to mitigate the risk of suicidal acts in these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Valenciano-Mendoza
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Fernández-Aranda
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Corresponding author. E-mail:
| | - Roser Granero
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia de les Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Vintró-Alcaraz
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain,Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bernat Mora-Maltas
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Valero-Solís
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Sánchez
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain,Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jessica Jimenez-de Toro
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mónica Gómez-Peña
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Moragas
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Jiménez-Murcia
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviors Group, Neurosciences Programme, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Corresponding author. E-mail:
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Midlife suicide: A systematic review and meta-analysis of socioeconomic, psychiatric and physical health risk factors. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 154:233-241. [PMID: 35961179 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Suicide is an increasing contributing cause of mortality in middle-aged adults; however, knowledge to guide prevention is limited. This first systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on midlife suicide has provided an overview of published research on this issue and synthesized the evidence on socioeconomic and physical and mental health factors associated with this mortality. Using PRISMA guidelines MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus and Web of Science were searched for English-language publications that involved persons aged 35 to 65, used individual-level data, and reported prevalence of exposure(s) or relative risks. The search identified 62 studies on midlife suicides and associated factors (28 for SES, 22 for psychiatric disorder and 23 for physical illness). All studies were from high income countries, and most (80.6%) used data from population registries. Meta-analyses showed that the pooled prevalence of exposure in suicide decedents was 57.8% for psychiatric disorder, 56.3% for low income, 43.2% for unemployment, and 27.3% for physical illness. The associated pooled risk ratio was 11.68 (95% confidence intervals: 5.82-23.47) for psychiatric illness of any type, 12.59 (8.29-19.12) for mood disorders, 3.91 (2.72-5.59) for unemployment, 3.18 (2.72-3.72) for being separated or divorced, 2.64 (2.26-3.10) for cancer, 2.50 (0.96-6.38) for central nervous system illness, and 2.26 (1.16-4.41) for low income. In conclusion, midlife suicide is strongly associated with socioeconomic difficulties and physical and psychiatric illnesses that are common in this age population. Future investigations should consider the interactions between risk factors, the intersectionality of sex and ethnicity, and include data from low- and middle-income countries.
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Smith M. Suicide Risk Assessments: A Scientific and Ethical Critique. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2022; 19:481-493. [PMID: 35606610 PMCID: PMC9463356 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-022-10189-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
There are widely held premises that suicide is almost exclusively the result of mental illness and there is "strong evidence for successfully detecting and managing suicidality in healthcare" (Hogan and Grumet, 2016). In this context, 'zero-suicide' policies have emerged, and suicide risk assessment tools have become a normative component of psychiatric practice. This essay discusses how suicide evolved from a moral to a medical problem and how, in an effort to reduce suicide, a paternalistic healthcare response emerged to predict those at high risk. The evidence for the premises is critiqued and shown to be problematic; and it is found that strong paternalistic interventions are being used more often than acknowledged. Using a Principles approach, the ethics of overriding autonomy in suicide prevention is considered. Ethical concerns are identified with the current approach which are potentially amplified by the use of these risk assessments. Furthermore, it is identified that the widespread use of risk assessments in health settings is equivalent to screening without regard to the ethical principles of screening. The essay concludes that this is unethical; that we should abandon the use of standardized suicide risk assessments and 'zero-suicide' policy; and that this may improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Smith
- Bioethics Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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22
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Choi NG, Marti CN, Choi BY. Job loss, financial strain, and housing problems as suicide precipitants: Associations with other life stressors. SSM Popul Health 2022; 19:101243. [PMID: 36203475 PMCID: PMC9530609 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2022.101243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has shown that job loss, financial strain, and/or loss of housing (JFH) in midlife elevate suicide risk. In this study based on the 2017–2019 National Violent Death Reporting System, we examined other suicide precipitants and contributors of decedents whose suicide was in part precipitated by JFH and the circumstances under which they died. First, we examined all adult decedents (N = 94,454; 74,042 males [78.4%] and 20,412 females [21.6%]) and then focused on decedents age 45–64 (N = 34,208; 25,640 males [75%] and 8568 females [25.0%]). The 45–64 age group had the highest rate of JFH (22.0% for males and 15.1% for females) as a suicide precipitant. The results of generalized linear models for all adult suicide decedents of both sexes showed that the 45–64 age group (IRR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.89–2.16), compared to 65+ age group, and relationship problems, mental disorders, and alcohol problems were associated with significantly higher risk of JFH-precipitated suicide. In male decedents age 45–64, JFH was positively associated with depressed mood (IRR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.85–2.06), alcohol problems (IRR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.07–1.21), and number of crises (IRR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.43–1.53). In female decedents age 45–64, JFH was positively associated with relationship problems (IRR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.05–1.35), legal problems (IRR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.06–1.54), depressed mood (IRR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.59–1.99), and number of crises (IRR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.48–1.68). In both sexes, the risk of JFH was also positively associated with a college education. In female decedents, JFH risk was higher among divorced or never-married individuals. Coroner/medical examiner and law enforcement agency reports show that some experienced depression and started misusing alcohol and/or other substances following a job loss, but others had these problems throughout life, which caused/contributed to JFH. These findings show the significance of suicide prevention approaches at both systemic (generous unemployment insurance, housing subsidies) and individual (treatment of depression and alcohol/substance misuse problems and social support/connection) levels. 16.2% of male and 13.0% of female suicide decedents age 18+ in 2017–2019 had job/finance/housing problems (JFH). Among decedents age 45–64, 22.0% of male and 15.1% of female had JFH. JFH was positively associated with number of crises, depressed mood, and relationship and alcohol problems in both sexes. Suicide prevention approaches are needed at both systemic and individual levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namkee G. Choi
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
- Corresponding author. UT Steve Hicks School of Social Work, 1925 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
| | - C. Nathan Marti
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Bryan Y. Choi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and BayHealth, Dover, DE, 19901, USA
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Kim AM. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on suicides: A population study. Psychiatry Res 2022; 314:114663. [PMID: 35717854 PMCID: PMC9181198 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study examines the factors associated with the change in the number of suicides per month during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2019 to 2021. For economic indicators, employment and unemployment rates, Consumer Price Index, and Consumer Sentiment Index were used. As inverse indicators of social distancing, the numbers of overseas departures, domestic trips, and movie audience were used. The monthly numbers of inpatients and outpatients for depression were included to consider the effect of the prevalence of depression. Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis and a linear regression were conducted. There was a continued decrease in the number of suicides of 1.7% in 2021 from 2020 following the 4.4% decrease in the previous year. The employment rate was positively associated with the number of suicides for males, while the consumer price index was negatively associated with the number of suicides for females. While the inverse social distancing measures were positively correlated with the number of suicides, no significant association was observed in the regression analysis. Commonly shared thoughts that the pandemic would lead to an increase in suicides by its direct negative impact on mental health or indirect impact through the aggravation of economic conditions and social distancing need to be re-examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnus M Kim
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehangno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Korea.
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Uphoff EP, Zamperoni V, Yap J, Simmonds R, Rodgers M, Dawson S, Seymour C, Kousoulis A, Churchill R. Mental health promotion and protection relating to key life events and transitions in adulthood: a rapid systematic review of systematic reviews. J Ment Health 2022:1-14. [PMID: 35658814 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2022.2069724] [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: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the decades representing working-age adulthood, most people will experience one or several significant life events or transitions. These may present a challenge to mental health. AIM The primary aim of this rapid systematic review of systematic reviews was to summarise available evidence on the effectiveness of interventions to promote and protect mental health relating to four key life events and transitions: pregnancy and early parenthood, bereavement, unemployment, and housing problems. This review was conducted to inform UK national policy on mental health support. METHODS We searched key databases for systematic reviews of interventions for working-age adults (19 to 64 years old) who had experienced or were at risk of experiencing one of four key life events. Titles and abstracts were screened by two reviewers in duplicate, as were full-text manuscripts of relevant records. We assessed the quality of included reviews and extracted data on the characteristics of each literature review. We prioritised high quality, recent systematic reviews for more detailed data extraction and synthesis. RESULTS The search and screening of 3997 titles/abstracts and 239 full-text papers resulted in 134 relevant studies, 68 of which were included in a narrative synthesis. Evidence was strongest and of the highest quality for interventions to support women during pregnancy and after childbirth. For example, we found benefits of physical activity and psychological therapy for outcomes relating to mental health after birth. There was high quality evidence of positive effects of online bereavement interventions and psychological interventions on symptoms of grief, post-traumatic stress, and depression. Evidence was inconclusive and of lower quality for a range of other bereavement interventions, unemployment support interventions, and housing interventions. CONCLUSIONS Whilst evidence based mental health prevention and promotion is available during pregnancy and early parenthood and for bereavement, it is unclear how best to support adults experiencing job loss, unemployment, and housing problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jade Yap
- Mental Health Foundation, London, UK
| | | | - Mark Rodgers
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Sarah Dawson
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | - Rachel Churchill
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
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Martínez-Alés G, Gimbrone C, Rutherford C, Keyes K, López-Cuadrado T. Role of Foreign-Born Status on Suicide Mortality in Spain Between 2000 and 2019: An Age-Period-Cohort Analysis. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1604538. [PMID: 35664647 PMCID: PMC9156625 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1604538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To examine recent age-period-cohort effects on suicide among foreign-born individuals, a particularly vulnerable sociodemographic group in Spain. Methods: Using 2000-2019 mortality data from Spain's National Institute of Statistics, we estimated age-period-cohort effects on suicide mortality, stratified by foreign-born status (native- vs. foreign-born) and, among the foreign-born, by Spanish citizenship status, a proxy for greater socioeconomic stability. Results: Annual suicide mortality rates were lower among foreign- than native-born individuals. There was heterogeneity in age-period-cohort effects between study groups. After 2010, suicide mortality increased markedly among the foreign-born-especially for female cohorts born around 1950, and slightly among native-born women-especially among female cohorts born after the 1960s. Among native-born men, suicide increased linearly with age and remained stable over time. Increases in suicide among the foreign-born were driven by increases among individuals without Spanish citizenship-especially among cohorts born after 1975. Conclusion: After 2010, suicide in Spain increased markedly among foreign-born individuals and slightly among native-born women, suggesting an association between the downstream effects of the 2008 economic recession and increases in suicide mortality among socioeconomically vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Martínez-Alés
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigacion Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
| | - Catherine Gimbrone
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Caroline Rutherford
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Katherine Keyes
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Teresa López-Cuadrado
- National Centre of Epidemiology, Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
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The association between unemployment and suicide among employed and unemployed people in Hong Kong: A time-series analysis. J Affect Disord 2022; 305:240-243. [PMID: 35288206 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.03.013] [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: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unemployment is associated with suicide. However, it is unclear whether the influence of unemployment is consistent on suicide across subgroups with different employment status. This study aimed to explore the immediate and delayed association between unemployment and suicide among unemployed and employed people in Hong Kong. METHODS Quarterly statistics on labor force, unemployment rate and suicide count by employment status in Hong Kong (2003-2019) were obtained from the Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department and the Coroner's Court suicide reports. Separate negative binomial autoregressive regressions were used to investigate associations between unemployment and suicide among employed and unemployed people. The models controlled for linear and non-linear time trends, seasonal variations, the number of suicide cases, Consumer Price Index, and gender ratios of the labor force in the previous quarter. RESULTS After controlling for all covariates, every 1% increase in the present unemployment rate was associated with a 15% increase in the suicide rate among the employed people in the current quarter (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.01-1.28), and a 13% decrease in the suicide rate among the unemployed in the next quarter (IRR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.78-0.98). LIMITATIONS Most recent data on suicide cannot be obtained due to processing time of death investigation. CONCLUSIONS The influence of unemployment differed on suicide by employment status in different time periods. Employed and unemployed people have different needs in different economic conditions. Hence, it is important to provide timely, targeted and effective measures for suicide prevention to the specific group.
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Junna L, Moustgaard H, Martikainen P. Current Unemployment, Unemployment History, and Mental Health: A Fixed-Effects Model Approach. Am J Epidemiol 2022; 191:1459-1469. [PMID: 35441659 PMCID: PMC9347014 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwac077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor mental health among the unemployed-the long-term unemployed in particular-is established, but these associations may be driven by confounding from unobserved, time-invariant characteristics such as past experiences and personality. Using longitudinal register data on 2,720,431 residents aged 30-60 years, we assessed how current unemployment and unemployment history predict visits to specialized care due to psychiatric conditions and self-harm in Finland in 2008-2018. We used linear ordinary-least-squares and fixed-effects models. Prior to adjusting for time-invariant characteristics, current unemployment was associated with poor mental health, and the risk increased with longer unemployment histories. Accounting for all time-invariant characteristics with the fixed-effects models, these associations attenuated by approximately 70%, yet current unemployment was still associated with a 0.51 (95% confidence interval: 0.48, 0.53) percentage-point increase in the probability of poor mental health among men and women. Longer unemployment histories increased the probability among men in their 30s but not among older men or among women. The results indicate that selection by stable characteristics may explain a major part of the worse mental health among the unemployed and especially the long-term unemployed. However, even when controlling for this selection, current unemployment remains associated with mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liina Junna
- Correspondence to Liina Junna, Population Research Unit, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 18, FIN-00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland (e-mail: )
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28
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Do tenants suffer from status syndrome? Homeownership, norms, and suicide in Belgium. DEMOGRAPHIC RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.4054/demres.2022.46.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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29
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Yorsaeng R, Suntronwong N, Thongpan I, Chuchaona W, Lestari FB, Pasittungkul S, Puenpa J, Atsawawaranunt K, Sharma C, Sudhinaraset N, Mungaomklang A, Kitphati R, Wanlapakorn N, Poovorawan Y. The impact of COVID-19 and control measures on public health in Thailand, 2020. PeerJ 2022; 10:e12960. [PMID: 35190788 PMCID: PMC8857899 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 virus has been an emerging disease causing global outbreaks for over a year. In Thailand, transmission may be controlled by strict measures that could positively and negatively impact physical health and suicidal behavior. METHODS The incidence of COVID-19 was retrieved from the Department of Disease Control (DDC). The impact of viral diseases was retrieved from the open-source of the DDC and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital. The road accidents data were from the Thai Ministry of Transport. The suicidal behavior data were obtained from the Department of Mental Health. We compared data from the year 2019 with the pandemic COVID-19 outbreak period in 2020, before lockdown, during lockdown, easing, and new wave period using unpaired t-test and least-squares linear regression. We compared the impact of the outbreak on various data records in 2020 with corresponding non-outbreak from 2019. RESULTS There was a significant decline in cases of influenza (p < 0.001) and norovirus (p = 0.01). However, there was no significant difference in RSV cases (p = 0.17). There was a dramatic increase in attempt to suicides and suicides (p < 0.001). There was no impact on roadside accidents and outpatient department visits. DISCUSSION The extensive intervention measures during lockdown during the first wave positively impacted total cases for each period for acute respiratory and gastrointestinal tract diseases, car accidents, and injuries and negatively impacted indicators of suicidal behavior. The data support government policies that would be effective against the next outbreak by promoting the "new normal" lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritthideach Yorsaeng
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Nungruthai Suntronwong
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Ilada Thongpan
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Watchaporn Chuchaona
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Fajar Budi Lestari
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Siripat Pasittungkul
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Jiratchaya Puenpa
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Kamolthip Atsawawaranunt
- Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Institute for Urban Disease Control and Prevention, Bangkok, Thailand,Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Institute of Preventive Medicine, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Chollasap Sharma
- Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Institute of Preventive Medicine, Nonthaburi, Thailand,Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Division of International Disease Control Port, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Natthinee Sudhinaraset
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Anek Mungaomklang
- Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Institute for Urban Disease Control and Prevention, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Nasamon Wanlapakorn
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Yong Poovorawan
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Pathumwan, Thailand
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Meda N, Miola A, Slongo I, Zordan MA, Sambataro F. The impact of macroeconomic factors on suicide in 175 countries over 27 years. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2022; 52:49-58. [PMID: 34032310 PMCID: PMC9292781 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Every year, more than 800,000 people die by suicide, three-quarters of which are males. Economic factors influence suicide rates, but a worldwide perspective of their impact according to age and sex is lacking. METHOD We queried publicly available datasets on economic factors and on suicide rates stratified according to sex and age, from 1991 to 2017, for 175 countries. Thus, we analyzed approximately 21 million deaths by suicide using a multivariable regression model approach. RESULTS Every 1% increase in global unemployment rates is associated with a 1% upsurge in male deaths by suicide (Relative risk (RR) = 1.01 [CI 95% 1.00-1.01] with respect to females) or 5000 excess male deaths. A 1% higher unemployment rate also exerts age-specific effects on suicide rates, since, among adults aged 30-59, the suicide rate is increased by 2-3%. Lastly, for every 1000 US dollar increase in the GDP per capita, suicide rates are reduced by 2% (RR = 0.98 [0.98-0.98]), corresponding to a reduction of 14,000-15,000 suicide deaths per year globally. CONCLUSIONS Males who have lost their jobs in adulthood are those at higher risk of suicide and to whom financial support measures should be delivered in a timely manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Meda
- Department of MedicineUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
| | | | - Irene Slongo
- Department of General PsychologyUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
| | - Mauro Agostino Zordan
- Padova Neuroscience CenterUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly,Department of BiologyUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
| | - Fabio Sambataro
- Padova Neuroscience CenterUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly,Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
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A time-series analysis of the association between alcohol and suicide in Australia. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 231:109203. [PMID: 34954450 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 800,000 people die by suicide every year according to World Health Organisation data. Studies have shown associations between alcohol consumption and suicide, with most demonstrating that alcohol consumption increases suicide risk. However, some studies from high consumption countries show results in the opposite direction. This present study examines the association between per capita (PC) alcohol consumption and same year suicide mortality in Australia, and tests for lag effects, between 1910 and 2017. MATERIALS AND METHODS Age and gender-specific autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models were used to examine associations between alcohol consumption PC and suicide mortality rates. Associations between unemployment, divorce, barbiturates access, and the Great Depression and World War II, and suicide were examined. RESULTS A 10% increase in PC alcohol consumption was associated with a 5% and 5.1% decrease in overall and male suicide mortality respectively in the same year. However, a 10% increase in PC alcohol consumption was associated with an 5.1% and 5.4% increase in overall and male suicide mortality respectively 12 years later. This association differed among age groups and was significant in the male population only. Unemployment, divorce, the Great Depression and WW2, and barbiturates access were significantly associated with same year suicide mortality. DISCUSSION Contemporaneous alcohol consumption was associated with decreased suicide mortality, but was also associated with an increased risk of suicide 12 years later. Unemployment and barbiturates access were associated with an increased risk of suicide. Interventions and policies that address chronic alcohol consumption and support the unemployed may reduce suicide mortality.
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Waters S, Palmer H. Dying at work. Work-related suicide – how does the UK regulatory context measure up? JOURNAL OF PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/jpmh-09-2021-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine how work-related suicides are monitored, investigated and regulated in the UK, examining a small selection of cases and drawing on international comparison with other countries. Effective data collection and regulation are the cornerstone of suicide prevention, and this paper aims to consider whether the UK’s current regulatory framework provides an effective basis for preventing work-related suicides.
Design/methodology/approach
This study draws on qualitative sociological methods and is based on an in-depth analysis of 12 suicide cases occurring between 2015 and 2020. In each case, work-related causal factors had been previously identified by at least one official source (police enquiry, coroner or employer’s investigation). This study analysed multiple sources of documentation and undertook interviews with individuals close to each suicide case. The aim of this study was to consider the organisational response of three stakeholder organisations to the suicides: the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the coroner and the employer.
Findings
The study points to serious shortcomings in the UK’s regulatory response to work-related suicides. Suicides are currently not recorded, investigated or regulated. Whereas the fracture of an arm or leg in the workplace needs to be reported to the HSE for further investigation, a suicide occurring in the workplace or that is work-related does not need to be reported to any public agency. Employers are not required to investigate an employee suicide or make any changes to workplace policies and practices in the aftermath of a suicide. The work-related factors that may have caused one suicide may, therefore, continue to pose health and safety risks to other employees.
Originality/value
Whereas some recent studies have examined work-related suicides within specific occupations in the UK, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to analyse the UK’s regulatory framework for work-related suicides. The study on which the paper is based produced a set of recommendations that were targeted at key stakeholder organisations.
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Grandison G, Karatzias T, Fyvie C, Hyland P, O'Connor RC, Dickson A. Suicidal Histories in Adults Experiencing Psychological Trauma: Exploring Vulnerability and Protective Factors. Arch Suicide Res 2022; 26:155-168. [PMID: 32348712 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2020.1758262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to identify vulnerability and protective factors for suicidal histories among adults experiencing psychological trauma. METHOD Adults seeking treatment for psychological trauma (N = 113) completed self-report questionnaires measuring childhood trauma history, self-concept, relational functioning, emotion regulation, living arrangements, employment status, marital status, and suicidal history. Independent samples t-tests were used to determine variables on which those with and without suicidal histories differed significantly. These variables were then entered into a binary logistic regression model to identify factors which independently distinguished between those with and without a suicidal history. RESULTS Univariate differences were found for childhood emotional abuse (CEA), childhood emotional neglect (CEN), emotion deactivation, and employment status, with those in the suicidal history group scoring higher on all of these. CEA (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.01-1.27) and employment status (OR = 4.12, 95% CI = 1.23-13.73) remained significant predictors of suicidal status in the multivariable logistic regression. CONCLUSIONS CEA was an independent vulnerability factor for suicidal risk, highlighting the need for clinicians to assess exposure to such trauma in those presenting with proximal traumatic experiences. Being in employment was an independent protective factor against suicidal risk, highlighting the importance of social buffers or networks when faced with traumatic situations.
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Ongeri L, Kariuki SM, Nyawira M, Schubart C, Tijdink JK, Newton CRJC, Penninx BWJH. Suicidal attempts and ideations in Kenyan adults with psychotic disorders: An observational study of frequency and associated risk factors. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1085201. [PMID: 36741571 PMCID: PMC9892760 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1085201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychotic disorders increase the risk for premature mortality with up to 40% of this mortality attributable to suicide. Although suicidal ideation (SI) and suicidal behavior (SB) are high in persons with psychotic disorders in sub-Saharan Africa, there is limited data on the risk of suicide and associated factors among persons with psychotic disorders. METHODS We assessed SI and SB in persons with psychotic disorders, drawn from a large case-control study examining the genetics of psychotic disorders in a Kenyan population. Participants with psychotic disorders were identified using a clinical review of records, and the diagnosis was confirmed with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). We conducted bivariate and multivariate logistic (for binary suicide outcomes) or linear regression (for suicide risk score) analysis for each of the suicide variables, with demographic and clinical variables as determinants. RESULTS Out of 619 participants, any current SI or lifetime suicidal attempts was reported by 203 (32.8%) with psychotic disorders, of which 181 (29.2%) had a lifetime suicidal attempt, 60 (9.7%) had SI in the past month, and 38 (20.9%) had both. Family history of suicidality was significantly associated with an increased risk of suicidality across all the following four outcomes: SI [OR = 2.56 (95% CI: 1.34-4.88)], suicidal attempts [OR = 2.01 (95% CI: 1.31-3.06)], SI and SB [OR = 2.00 (95% CI: 1.31-3.04)], and suicide risk score [beta coefficient = 7.04 (2.72; 11.36), p = 0.001]. Compared to persons aged <25 years, there were reduced odds for SI for persons aged ≥ 25 years [OR = 0.30 (95% CI: 0.14-0.62)] and ≥ 45 years [OR = 0.32 (95% CI: 0.12-0.89)]. The number of negative life events experienced increased the risk of SI and SB [OR = 2.91 (95% CI: 1.43-5.94)] for 4 or more life events. Higher negative symptoms were associated with more suicidal attempts [OR = 2.02 (95%CI: 1.15-3.54)]. Unemployment was also associated with an increased risk for suicidal attempts [OR = 1.58 (95%CI: 1.08-2.33)] and SI and SB [OR = 1.68 (95% CI: 1.15-2.46)]. CONCLUSION Suicidal ideation and SB are common in persons with psychotic disorders in this African setting and are associated with sociodemographic factors, such as young age and unemployment, and clinical factors, such as family history of suicidality. Interventions targeted at the community (e.g., economic empowerment) or at increasing access to care and treatment for persons with psychotic disorders may reduce the risk of suicide in this vulnerable population group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnet Ongeri
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Symon M Kariuki
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya.,Neuroscience Unit, Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Program, Kilifi, Kenya.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Miriam Nyawira
- Neuroscience Unit, Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Program, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Joeri K Tijdink
- Department of Ethics, Law and Humanities, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Charles R J C Newton
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya.,Neuroscience Unit, Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Program, Kilifi, Kenya.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Brenda W J H Penninx
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Yu B, Chen X. Relationship Among Social Capital, Employment Uncertainty, Anxiety, and Suicidal Behaviors: A Chained Multi-mediator Mediation Modeling Analysis. Arch Suicide Res 2022; 26:261-279. [PMID: 32697144 PMCID: PMC7855900 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2020.1793044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Social capital is a significant predictor of suicidal behaviors among Chinese rural migrants. However, the mechanism, including the impact of employment and mental health, has not been fully understood. This study aims to examine the complex relationships linking social capital to suicidal behaviors. METHOD Data were collected from a probability sample (n = 1,245) of rural migrants in Wuhan, China. Social capital was used to predict suicidal behaviors, with employment uncertainty as step 1 mediator and anxiety as step 2 mediator. Suicidal ideation and attempt were analyzed separately using a chained moderated mediation model. Years of migration was included as moderator in all models to control its confounding effect. RESULTS Of the total sample, 50.9% were male with mean age of 32.0 (SD = 7.8) years. The association between social capital and suicidal ideation was significantly mediated by employment uncertainty (indirect effect [95% CI] = -0.14 [-0.24, -0.04]), but not for suicidal attempt (-0.02 [-0.20, 0.15]). Anxiety significantly mediated the same association for both suicidal ideation (-0.19 [-0.37, -0.01]) and attempt (-0.20 [-0.40, -0.01]). The chained relationship from social capital to employment uncertainty, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors was also significant with indirect effect of -0.05 [-0.09, -0.01] for both suicidal ideation and attempt. Similar results were observed for bonding and bridging capital. CONCLUSIONS Social capital may exert an effect on suicidal behaviors through employment and mental health among rural migrants in China. Social capital-based suicide prevention must consider both employment and mental health problems to obtain better effects.HighlightsEmployment and anxiety mediate social capital-suicidal behavior relation.Bonding capital affects anxiety and bridging capital affects employment.There is a chained relation among social capital, employment, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors.
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Abstract
This study assessed potential correlates to past-year suicide ideation among a national sample of transgender adults in the United States. A secondary analysis of the 2015 Transgender Survey was conducted. The 2015 Transgender Survey is the first and largest survey assessing health behaviors among transgender individuals living in the United States. Participants were recruited by several methods (e.g., social media, random sampling, photobooth campaigns. Weighted logistic regression analyses adjusting for covariates were conducted to investigate potential associations to whether or not an individual thought about suicide. A total of 27,795 individuals who self-identified as transgender participated in the study. Of the sample, 34.0% identified as a man, 29.8% identified as a woman, 20.6% identified as non-binary, and 15.5% identified as part time one gender/part time another. Nearly half of participants (48.5%) reported past year suicide ideation. Significant predictors included gender identity, age, income, race, low family support, and self-reported physical and sexual assault. This is one of the first studies that we are aware of examining past-year suicidal ideation among a large, nationally representative sample of transgender individuals. Interventions (e.g., acceptance therapy, evaluation, focus groups) are desperately needed to address this burgeoning problem among transgender individuals.
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Lim J, Ko K, Lee KE, Park JB, Lee S, Jeong I. Inequalities in External-Cause Mortality in 2018 across Industries in Republic of Korea. Saf Health Work 2021; 13:117-125. [PMID: 35936206 PMCID: PMC9347002 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background External-cause mortality is an important public health issue worldwide. Considering its significance to workers’ health and inequalities across industries, we aimed to describe the state of external-cause mortality and investigate its difference by industry in Republic of Korea based on data for 2018. Methods Data obtained from the Statistics Korea and Korean Employment Information System were used. External causes of death were divided into three categories (suicide, transport accident, and others), and death occurred during employment period or within 90 days after unemployment was regarded as workers’ death. We calculated age- and sex-standardized mortalities per 100,000, standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) compared to the general population and total workers, and mortality rate ratios (RRs) across industries using information and communication as a reference. Correlation analyses between income, education, and mortality were conducted. Results Age- and sex-standardized external-cause mortality per 100,000 in all workers was 29.4 (suicide: 16.2, transport accident: 6.6, others: 6.6). Compared to the general population, all external-cause and suicide SMRs were significantly lower; however, there was no significant difference in transport accidents. When compared to total workers, wholesale, transportation, and business facilities management showed higher SMR for suicide, and agriculture, forestry, and fishing, mining and quarrying, construction, transportation and storage, and public administration and defense showed higher SMR for transport accidents. A moderate to strong negative correlation was observed between education level and mortality (both age- and sex-standardized mortality rates and SMR compared to the general population). Conclusion Inequalities in external-cause mortalities from suicide, transport accidents, and other causes were found. For reducing the differences, improved policies are needed for industries with higher mortalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyoung Lim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwon Ko
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Eun Lee
- Department of Epidemiologic Investigation, Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Bum Park
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungho Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Inchul Jeong
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University Hospital, Suwon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
- Corresponding author. Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University School of Medicine, 164 World cup-ro, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
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Mukherjee S, Wei Z. Suicide disparities across metropolitan areas in the US: A comparative assessment of socio-environmental factors using a data-driven predictive approach. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258824. [PMID: 34818324 PMCID: PMC8612572 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Disparity in suicide rates across various metropolitan areas in the US is growing. Besides personal genomics and pre-existing mental health conditions affecting individual-level suicidal behaviors, contextual factors are also instrumental in determining region-/community-level suicide risk. However, there is a lack of quantitative approach to model the complex associations and interplays of the socio-environmental factors with the regional suicide rates. In this paper, we propose a holistic data-driven framework to model the associations of socio-environmental factors (demographic, socio-economic, and climate) with the suicide rates, and compare the key socio-environmental determinants of suicides across the large and medium/small metros of the vulnerable US states, leveraging a suite of advanced statistical learning algorithms. We found that random forest outperforms all the other models in terms of both in-sample goodness-of-fit and out-of-sample predictive accuracy, which is then used for statistical inferencing. Overall, our findings show that there is a significant difference in the relationships of socio-environmental factors with the suicide rates across the large and medium/small metropolitan areas of the vulnerable US states. Particularly, suicides in medium/small metros are more sensitive to socio-economic and demographic factors, while that in large metros are more sensitive to climatic factors. Our results also indicate that non-Hispanics, native Hawaiian or Pacific islanders, and adolescents aged 15-29 years, residing in the large metropolitan areas, are more vulnerable to suicides compared to those living in the medium/small metropolitan areas. We also observe that higher temperatures are positively associated with higher suicide rates, with large metros being more sensitive to such association compared to that of the medium/small metros. Our proposed data-driven framework underscores the future opportunities of using big data analytics in analyzing the complex associations of socio-environmental factors and inform policy actions accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayanti Mukherjee
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University at Buffalo - The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
| | - Zhiyuan Wei
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University at Buffalo - The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
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Precarious Suicide Behavior According to Housing Price Gap: A Case Study on South Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18189877. [PMID: 34574800 PMCID: PMC8470716 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In 2018, the suicide rate in South Korea was the highest among the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, and socioeconomic inequality has intensified. This study analyzes the impact relationship between suicidal impulses and economic inequality in South Korea. This study measures suicidal impulses thoughts National Health Survey Data and economic inequality based on the housing prices gap in the country. The primary analysis results were as follows: First, suicidal impulses were positively associated with the high index of housing price inequality; this correlation has become tight in recent years. Second, it was confirmed that the higher the income level, the higher the correlation between suicidal impulses with the index of housing price inequality. Third, the correlation between housing price inequality with suicidal impulse increased consistently in highly urbanized areas, but the statistical significance was low in non-urban areas.
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40
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Kamekis A, Rachiotis G, Markaki A, Samara V, Symvoulakis EK. Employment and suicidal rates during economic recession: A country-targeted integrative review. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2021; 67:801-815. [PMID: 33135535 DOI: 10.1177/0020764020969740] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The economic crisis' effects on suicide rates for countries undergoing or exiting austerity measures have been widely debated. This integrative review aimed to identify, appraise, and synthesize available evidence of employment status effect on suicide mortality rates in Greece during the recent economic recession period. METHODS A literature review of studies evaluating suicides in the general Greek population, as well as across age and gender groups, in relation to employment during the economic crisis period was performed. PubMed electronic database was searched for relevant articles published in English or Greek language from 2009 up to February 2020. Appraisal was carried out based on the Hierarchy of Evidence Rating System and the GRADE guidelines. RESULTS A total of 24 articles met all inclusion criteria with 20 of them at level IV, 2 at level VII, and 2 at level VIII. A total of 18 studies reported increase of suicide rates during the economic recession period. About 12 studies examined the co-relation between unemployment and suicide rate, with ten studies showing a positive correlation. Moreover, thirteen studies reported data on the effect of gender and age variables on suicide rates. CONCLUSION Evidence shows that suicide mortality rates in Greece increased after the eruption of economic recession, particularly after the implementation of radical austerity measures (2011-2014). This increase was positively correlated with unemployment and was more prominent among males of working age. Further in depth epidemiological research of regional variations in terms of profile and contributing or enabling factors of suicidal behavior is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George Rachiotis
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Larissa, Greece
| | - Adelais Markaki
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Vasiliki Samara
- Department of Educational and Social policy, University of Makedonia, Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Greece
| | - Emmanouil K Symvoulakis
- Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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41
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Hawkins D, Punnett L, Davis L, Kriebel D. The Contribution of Occupation-Specific Factors to the Deaths of Despair, Massachusetts, 2005-2015. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:819-832. [PMID: 33889956 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In the USA, deaths from poisonings (especially opioids), suicides, and alcoholic liver disease, collectively referred to as 'deaths of despair', have been increasing rapidly over the past two decades. The risk of deaths from these causes is known to be higher among certain occupations. It may be that specific exposures and experiences of workers in these occupations explain these differences in risk. This study sought to determine whether differences in the risk of deaths of despair were associated with rate of occupational injuries and illnesses, job insecurity, and temporal changes in employment in non-standard work arrangements. METHODS Usual occupation information was collected from death certificates of Massachusetts residents aged 16-64 with relevant causes of death between 2005 and 2015. These data were combined with occupation-level data about occupational injuries and illnesses, job insecurity, and non-standard work arrangements. We calculated occupation-specific mortality rates for deaths of despair, categorized by occupational injury and illnesses rates and job insecurity. We calculated trends in mortality according to changes in non-standard work arrangements. RESULTS Workers in occupations with higher injury and illnesses rates and more job insecurity had higher rates of deaths of despair, especially opioid-related deaths. Rates of deaths of despair increased most rapidly for occupations with increasing prevalence of workers employed in non-standard work arrangements. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest occupational factors that may contribute to the risk of deaths of despair. Future studies should examine these factors with individual-level data. In the meantime, efforts should be made to address these factors, which also represent known or suspected hazards for other adverse health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devan Hawkins
- Public Health Program, Schools of Arts and Sciences, MCPHS University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura Punnett
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA, USA
| | | | - David Kriebel
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA, USA
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Kheibari A, Hedden BJ, Comartin E, Kral M, Kubiak S. Law Enforcement and Suicide Calls for Service: A Mixed-Methods Study of Suicide Attempts and Deaths. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2021:302228211029476. [PMID: 34266314 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211029476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suicide is a major public health issue, however, little is known about the characteristics/circumstances of suicide events. Data from law enforcement (LE) call reports are an important source of information related to suicide. Hence, this study explores suicide events captured in LE call reports. METHOD This mixed-methods study used data from call reports collected in a metropolitan county in 2017 in a Midwestern state wherein LE responded to suicide incidents (N=213). Descriptive and bivariate analyses of quantitative data were used to assess differences between incident type (i.e. attempts vs. deaths). Themes of suicide emerged from the qualitative data. RESULTS Findings revealed that suicide decedents tended to be male, older, and had at least one intrapersonal issue as a precipitating factor. The qualitative sections illuminated three themes across suicide attempts: self-harm as an autonomy seeking strategy; challenging claims of suicidality; and promising to not self-harm. CONCLUSIONS Suicide incidents that rise to the level of crisis requiring a LE response is understudied in both the suicide and LE literature. Increasing the sophistication of call report documentation procedures would allow for communities to deepen their understanding of how suicide manifests and could create pathways to non-institutionalized care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athena Kheibari
- School of Social Work, 2954Wayne State University, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Bethany Joy Hedden
- School of Social Work, 2954Wayne State University, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States.,Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States.,Department of Anthropology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Erin Comartin
- School of Social Work, 2954Wayne State University, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States.,Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Michael Kral
- School of Social Work, 2954Wayne State University, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Sheryl Kubiak
- School of Social Work, 2954Wayne State University, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States.,Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States
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Jiang B, Shen K, Sullivan WC, Yang Y, Liu X, Lu Y. A natural experiment reveals impacts of built environment on suicide rate: Developing an environmental theory of suicide. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 776:145750. [PMID: 33647665 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide is a global challenge. Although it is clear that socioeconomic and demographic factors influence suicide rates, we know little about the impacts of the built environment on suicide rates. METHODS We investigated the relationship between characteristics of the built environment and suicide death rates over a 13-year period in 151 rent-only public housing communities in Hong Kong. The regulations of the public housing authority in Hong Kong constituted a natural experiment with minimal self-selection bias. We conducted hierarchical regression analyses and found that characteristics of the built environment were significantly associated with suicide rates after controlling for SES and demographic factors at the community level. RESULTS Three significant environmental factors were identified distance to the nearest urban center, distance to the nearest Mass Transit Railway station, and gross flat area per person. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate a significant association between features of the built environment and suicide rates. They also suggest possible interventions that might reduce suicide through design, or redesign, of the built environment. Lastly, we propose an environmental theory of suicide based on the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Jiang
- Virtual Reality Lab of Urban Environments and Human Health, HKUrbanLabs, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Division of Landscape Architecture, Department of Architecture, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Ke Shen
- Virtual Reality Lab of Urban Environments and Human Health, HKUrbanLabs, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Division of Landscape Architecture, Department of Architecture, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - William C Sullivan
- Department of Landscape Architecture, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA
| | - Yiyang Yang
- Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xueming Liu
- Virtual Reality Lab of Urban Environments and Human Health, HKUrbanLabs, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Borrell C, Palència L, Marí Dell'Olmo M, Morrisson J, Deboosere P, Gotsens M, Dzurova D, Costa C, Lustigova M, Burstrom B, Rodríguez-Sanz M, Bosakova L, Zengarini N, Katsouyanni K, Santana P. Socioeconomic inequalities in suicide mortality in European urban areas before and during the economic recession. Eur J Public Health 2021; 30:92-98. [PMID: 31410446 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckz125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have assessed the impact of the financial crisis on inequalities in suicide mortality in European urban areas. The objective of the study was to analyse the trend in area socioeconomic inequalities in suicide mortality in nine European urban areas before and after the beginning of the financial crisis. METHODS This ecological study of trends was based on three periods, two before the economic crisis (2000-2003, 2004-2008) and one during the crisis (2009-2014). The units of analysis were the small areas of nine European cities or metropolitan areas, with a median population ranging from 271 (Turin) to 193 630 (Berlin). For each small area and sex, we analysed smoothed standardized mortality ratios of suicide mortality and their relationship with a socioeconomic deprivation index using a hierarchical Bayesian model. RESULTS Among men, the relative risk (RR) comparing suicide mortality of the 95th percentile value of socioeconomic deprivation (severe deprivation) to its 5th percentile value (low deprivation) were higher than 1 in Stockholm and Lisbon in the three periods. In Barcelona, the RR was 2.06 (95% credible interval: 1.24-3.21) in the first period, decreasing in the other periods. No significant changes were observed across the periods. Among women, a positive significant association was identified only in Stockholm (RR around 2 in the three periods). There were no significant changes across the periods except in London with a RR of 0.49 (95% CI: 0.35-0.68) in the third period. CONCLUSIONS Area socioeconomic inequalities in suicide mortality did not change significantly after the onset of the crisis in the areas studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carme Borrell
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Palència
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Service of Health Information Systems, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Marí Dell'Olmo
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Service of Environmental Quality and Intervention, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joana Morrisson
- Institute of Health Equity at the Research Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Patrick Deboosere
- Department of Sociology, Interface Demography, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mercè Gotsens
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Service of Prevention and Attention of Drug Use, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dagmar Dzurova
- Department of Social Geography and Regional Development, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Claudia Costa
- Department of Geography and Tourism, Centre of Studies in Geography and Spatial Planning (CEGOT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Michala Lustigova
- Department of Social Geography and Regional Development, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Bo Burstrom
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maica Rodríguez-Sanz
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,Unit of Research, Training and Communication, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lucia Bosakova
- Department of Health Psychology, Medical Faculty, P. J. Safarik University in Kosice, Kosice, Slovak Republic.,Olomouc University Social Health Institute (OUSHI), Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | | | - Klea Katsouyanni
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece.,Department of Population Health Sciences, and Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, King's College, London, UK
| | - Paula Santana
- Department of Geography and Tourism, Centre of Studies in Geography and Spatial Planning (CEGOT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Hurzeler T, Buckley NA, Noghrehchi F, Malouf P, Page A, Schumann JL, Chitty KM. Alcohol-related suicide across Australia: a geospatial analysis. Aust N Z J Public Health 2021; 45:394-399. [PMID: 34097331 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The acute effects of alcohol consumption are a major risk factor for suicide. Positive blood alcohol concentrations are present in almost one-third of all suicides at time of death. These suicides are defined as alcohol-related suicides. This cross-sectional study examines the geospatial distribution/clustering of high proportions of alcohol-related suicides and reports on socioeconomic and demographic risk factors. METHODS National Coronial Information System (NCIS) data were used to calculate proportions of suicides with alcohol present at the time of death for each level 3 statistical areas (SA3) in Australia. A density analysis and hotspot cluster analysis were used to visualise and establish statistically significant clustering of areas with higher (hotspots) and lower (coldspots) proportions. Subsequently, socioeconomic and demographic risk factors for alcohol use and suicide were reported on for hot and cold spots. RESULTS Significant clustering of areas with higher proportions of alcohol-related suicide occurred in northern Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland, as well as inland New South Wales and inland Queensland. Clustering of SA3s with significantly lower proportions occurred in major city and inner regional Sydney and Melbourne. Conclusion and implications for public health: Results from this study identify areas in which prevention strategies should target alcohol use and can be used to inform prevention strategy design. Additionally, hotspots and coldspots identified in this study can be used for further analysis to better understand contextual risk factors for alcohol-related suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Hurzeler
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, Translational Australian Clinical Toxicology Program, The University of Sydney, New South Wales.,Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Nicholas A Buckley
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, Translational Australian Clinical Toxicology Program, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Firouzeh Noghrehchi
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, Translational Australian Clinical Toxicology Program, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Peter Malouf
- Discipline of Indigenous Health and Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Centre of Research Excellence in Indigenous Health and Alcohol, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Andrew Page
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, New South Wales
| | - Jennifer L Schumann
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Victoria
| | - Kate M Chitty
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, Translational Australian Clinical Toxicology Program, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
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Volinn E, Loeser JD. Upsurges in the joblessness and opioid epidemics in the United States after the COVID-19 epidemic: the plight of the jobless patient in the clinic. Pain 2021; 162:1608-1611. [PMID: 33657577 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Volinn
- Department of Sociology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - John D Loeser
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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A step back from the edge: empirical modeling of the role of social integration on suicide and associated deleterious health outcomes across adolescents from six middle-income countries. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2021; 56:793-805. [PMID: 33221929 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-020-01987-6] [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: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is economic importance to stimulating awareness about preventing adolescent suicide and other associated deleterious mental and behavioral health outcomes, especially the long-term costs from lost productivity. However, the presence of stigma and poor healthcare reporting systems which often prevent data access have frequently limited research into these topics in low-and-middle income (LMICs) countries. The majority of existing research on these topics using LMICs data primarily focuses on prevalence rates and basic correlational associations, and is often a-theoretic. Empirically rigorous work, mostly found using data from the developed world, has primarily relegated suicide into a box of utility-maximization-based decisions. Social integration theory may be a more relevant approach for researching the mitigating factors to deleterious heath behaviors among adolescents in LMICs. METHODS Using data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) of six different countries, we estimate a reduced-form, simultaneous model incorporating specialized clustering to determine the influence of social integration on five different deleterious health outcomes, including three levels of suicidal behavior. RESULTS Robust results indicate that positive parenting and social exclusion reduce and increase the likelihood of all outcomes, respectively, among both pooled and individual country samples. CONCLUSION Such results provide an impetus for pursuing interventions in LMICs, which focus on social-based, multi-level approaches. Such interventions could include such elements as peer-to-peer training support and awareness/promotion of mental health among parents of adolescents.
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Cunningham R, Milner A, Gibb S, Rijnberg V, Disney G, Kavanagh AM. Gendered experiences of unemployment, suicide and self-harm: a population-level record linkage study. Psychol Med 2021; 52:1-9. [PMID: 33875022 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721000994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unemployment and being not in the labour force (NILF) are risk factors for suicide, but their association with self-harm is unclear, and there is continuing debate about the role of confounding by prior mental health conditions. We examine associations between employment status and self-harm and suicide in a prospective cohort, taking into account prior mental-health-related factors. METHODS We used linked data from the New Zealand Integrated Data Infrastructure. The outcomes were chosen to be hospital presentation for self-harm and death by suicide. The exposure was employment status, defined as employed, unemployed, or NILF, measured at the 2013 Census. Confounders included demographic factors and mental health history (use of antidepressant medication, use of mental health services, and prior self-harm). Logistic regression was used to model effects. Analyses were stratified by gender. RESULTS For males, unemployment was associated with an increased risk of suicide [odds ratio (OR): 1.48, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.20-1.84] and self-harm (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.45-1.68) after full adjustment for confounders. NILF was associated with an increased risk of self-harm (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.32-1.55), but less of an association was seen with suicide (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.94-1.49). For females, unemployment was associated with an increased risk of suicide (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 0.93-1.80) and of self-harm (OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.43-1.62), and NILF was associated with a similar increase in risk for suicide (OR: 1.31, 95% CI: 0.98-1.75) and self-harm (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.26-1.40). DISCUSSION Exclusion from employment is associated with a considerably heightened risk of suicide and self-harm for both men and women, even among those without prior mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cunningham
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Newtown Wellington, New Zealand
| | - A Milner
- Disability and Health Unit, Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - S Gibb
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Newtown Wellington, New Zealand
| | - V Rijnberg
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Newtown Wellington, New Zealand
| | - G Disney
- Disability and Health Unit, Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - A M Kavanagh
- Disability and Health Unit, Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
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Kim AM. Suicide rates by occupation in Korea, 1993-2017: the impacts of financial crisis and suicide policy. Psychiatry Res 2021; 298:113787. [PMID: 33667945 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study compared the suicide rates among different groups of occupations in Korea and their changes from 1993 through 2017. The suicide rate tended to be low in the high skill occupations except the manager group. The suicide rates showed increases around the financial crises of 1997 and 2008 in most occupations, and the sharpest increase was observed in the managers. The suicide rate in the manager group, which was the lowest among all occupation groups until the mid 2000s, showed the sharpest increase and became the highest since 2012 among all occupation groups. The sustained reduction in suicide rates among the skilled agricultural, forestry and fishery workers in Korea, following the implementation of paraquat control since 2005, shows that means restriction is an effective and essential way for reducing suicides. While more efforts should be put into means restriction, policy makers should focus on changing public perceptions of suicide in order that it would not be accepted as a possible solution for the difficulties in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnus M Kim
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehangno, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea.
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50
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Drake RE, Sederer LI, Becker DR, Bond GR. COVID-19, Unemployment, and Behavioral Health Conditions: The Need for Supported Employment. ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY IN MENTAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2021; 48:388-392. [PMID: 33791925 PMCID: PMC8011768 DOI: 10.1007/s10488-021-01130-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused massive unemployment, exacerbated pre-existing behavioral health (mental health and substance use) disorders for many people, and created new disorders for others. Although policy changes have increased health care and unemployment benefits, most people want jobs and self-sufficiency rather than handouts. A robust evidence base shows that supported employment can enable unemployed people with behavioral health conditions to find competitive, integrated employment and behavioral health supports. Millions of U.S. citizens may need these services as the pandemic recedes and jobs become available. Government attention to supported employment is necessary now more than ever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E Drake
- Westat, Rivermill Commercial Center, 85 Mechanic Street Suite C3-1, Lebanon, NH, 03766, USA
| | | | - Deborah R Becker
- Westat, Rivermill Commercial Center, 85 Mechanic Street Suite C3-1, Lebanon, NH, 03766, USA
| | - Gary R Bond
- Westat, Rivermill Commercial Center, 85 Mechanic Street Suite C3-1, Lebanon, NH, 03766, USA.
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