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Kaurin A, Wright AGC, Porta G, Hamilton E, Poling K, Bero K, Brent D, Goldstein TR. Weekly links among irritability and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in high-risk youth. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024. [PMID: 38651278 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13988] [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] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies demonstrate a link between irritability and suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) in youth samples. However, they have mostly assessed irritability in community samples and as a largely dispositional (i.e. trait-like) construct. Thus, it remains unclear to what extent links between irritability and STBs reflect within-person processes of elevated risk in clinically meaningful time periods. METHODS The present study used clinical data from 689 adolescents aged 12-19 years attending a total of 6,128 visits at a specialty Intensive Outpatient Program for depressed and suicidal youth to examine patterns in weekly assessments of irritability and STBs throughout treatment, including associations among trends and fluctuations departing from these trends via multilevel structural equation modeling. Youth completed self-report measures of irritability, depression, and STBs weekly as part of standard IOP clinical care. RESULTS Overall, two-thirds of variance in weekly irritable mood was accounted for by between-person differences and the remaining portion by weekly fluctuations. After controlling for depression, during weeks when youth were more irritable they experienced increased STBs. Rates of change in irritability and STBs tended to track together at early stages of treatment, but these effects were generally accounted for by depression severity. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that although changes in STBs are best accounted for by depression, irritability can be understood as a specific, proximal risk factor for youth STBs that exacerbates youth STBs in clinically informative timeframes above and beyond depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Kaurin
- Department of Psychology, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Aidan G C Wright
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Giovanna Porta
- Western Psychiatric Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Edward Hamilton
- Western Psychiatric Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kimberly Poling
- Western Psychiatric Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kelsey Bero
- Western Psychiatric Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - David Brent
- Western Psychiatric Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Tina R Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Western Psychiatric Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Doyle RL, Fite PJ. Informant Discrepancies in Suicidality Screening Tools Among School Age Youth. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:394-404. [PMID: 35980493 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01412-w] [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: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
As the rate of death by suicide in youth ages 6 to 12 rises, it is imperative to better understand informant discrepancies when screening for suicidality. Accordingly, this study investigated associations among youth-, caregiver-, and clinician-reports of youth's suicidality and their associations with youth- and caregiver-reports of youth's depressive symptoms. Participants were 161 6- to 12-year-old youth presenting for outpatient psychological services at a Midwest training clinic between 2014 and 2019. More than 1 in 4 youth had at least one informant report some suicidal concerns. Results indicated that all informants' reports of suicidality were correlated with one another, with youth- and clinician-report being most strongly linked and caregiver- and clinician-report having the weakest correlation. Clinician- and youth-reports of suicidality were associated with youth-report, (but not caregiver-report) of depressive symptoms. Caregiver-report of suicidality was not associated with youth- or caregiver-report of depressive symptoms. When youth-report of depressive symptoms was regressed on sex, age, and youth-, caregiver-, and clinician-reports of suicidality, there was a trend that youth-report of suicidality was positively associated with youth-report of depressive symptoms. No informant's report of suicidality was uniquely associated with caregiver-report of depressive symptoms. Findings indicate that youth- and clinician-reports at intake are more strongly linked with one another than with caregiver-reports. Further, youth-reports on suicidality screening tools are more strongly associated with depressive symptoms than caregiver-report, suggesting that caregiver-reports are insufficient to assess concerns of suicidality at intake among school age youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Doyle
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue Dole HDC Rm 2006, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA.
| | - Paula J Fite
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue Dole HDC Rm 2006, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA
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3
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Wichstrøm L, Borgen AE, Steinsbekk S. Parental personality disorder symptoms and children's social skills: a prospective community study. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 32:1561-1568. [PMID: 35235044 PMCID: PMC10460342 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-01965-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Acquiring age-appropriate social skills, arguably a major prerequisite for favorable psychosocial development in children, is targeted in a range of interventions. Hence, identifying factors that limit this acquisition may inform preventative and treatment efforts. Personality disorders are characterized by pervasive and enduring dysfunctional interpersonal functioning, including parenting, and could thus entail risk for offspring in not developing adaptive interpersonal skills. However, no study has tested this possibility. A representative sample drawn from two birth cohorts of Norwegian 4-year-olds (n = 956) and their parents was followed up at ages 6, 8, and 10 years. Parents' personality disorder symptoms were measured dimensionally with the DSM-IV and ICD-10 Personality Questionnaire, and children's social skills were evaluated by the Social Skills Rating System. A difference-in-difference approach was applied to adjust for all unmeasured time-invariant confounders, and parental symptoms of depression and anxiety were entered as covariates. Increased Cluster B symptoms in parents of children aged 4 to 6 years predicted decreased social skill development in offspring (B = -0.97, 95% CI -1.58, -0.37, p = 0.002). On a more granular level, increased symptoms of borderline (B = -0.39, CI -0.65, -0.12, p = 0.004), histrionic (B = -0.55, CI -0.99, -0.11, p = 0.018), and avoidant (B = -0.46, CI-0.79, -0.13, p = 0.006) personality disorders in parents predicted decreased social skill development in offspring. Subclinical levels of borderline, histrionic and avoidant personality disorders in parents may impair the development of social skills in offspring. Successfully treating these personality problems or considering them when providing services to children may facilitate children's acquisition of social skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Wichstrøm
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Anna Emilie Borgen
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Silje Steinsbekk
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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4
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Lee MS, Kim J, Hong HJ, Bhang SY. Can We Notice the Suicidal Warning Signs of Adolescents With Different Psychometric Profiles Before Their Death?: Analysis of Teachers' Reports. J Korean Med Sci 2023; 38:e194. [PMID: 37365728 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2023.38.e194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to analyze the suicidal warning signs of Korean students with different psychometric profiles based on teacher reports. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study based on Korean school teachers' responses to the Student Suicide Report Form. In total, 546 consecutive cases of student suicide were reported from 2017 to 2020. After missing data were excluded, 528 cases were included. The report consisted of demographic factors, the Korean version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for teacher reporting, and warning signs of suicide. Frequency analysis, multiple response analysis, the χ² test, and Latent Class Analysis (LCA) were performed. RESULTS Based on the scores of the Korean version of the teacher-reported SDQ, the group was divided into nonsymptomatic (n = 411) and symptomatic (n = 117) groups. Based on the LCA results, four latent hierarchical models were selected. The four classes of deceased students showed significant differences in school type (χ² = 20.410, P < 0.01), physical illness (χ² = 7.928, P < 0.05), mental illness (χ² = 94.332, P < 0.001), trigger events (χ² = 14.817, P < 0.01), self-harm experience (χ² = 30.618, P < 0.001), suicide attempts (χ² = 24.072, P < 0.001), depressive symptoms (χ² = 59.561, P < 0.001), anxiety (χ² = 58.165, P < 0.001), impulsivity (χ² = 62.241, P < 0.001), and social problems (χ² = 64.952, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Notably, many students who committed suicide did not have any psychiatric pathology. The proportion of the group with a prosocial appearance was also high. Therefore, the actual suicide warning signals were similar regardless of students' difficulties and prosocial behaviors, so it is necessary to include this information in gatekeeper education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Sun Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Center for School Mental Health, Eulji University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joonbeom Kim
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Social Welfare Policy, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Ju Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Korea
- Suicide and School Mental Health Institute, Hallym University, Anyang, Korea
| | - Soo-Young Bhang
- Center for School Mental Health, Eulji University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Nowon Eulji University Hospital, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Yaqoob N, Ahsan S. Impact of mood disorders and personality disorders on suicide intent among self-harm patients. Pak J Med Sci 2023; 39:491-496. [PMID: 36950393 PMCID: PMC10025743 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.39.2.6140] [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: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The present research examined the impact of mood disorder and personality disorders on suicide intent among self-harm patients using cross sectional research design. Methods A clinical sample of 220 self-harm inpatients with age of 18 to 35 years was collected through purposive sampling technique from different mental health departments of Rawalpindi, Jhelum and Multan hospitals. Study was conducted from June 2019 till November, 2021. Data was compiled in three steps. In step-I, rapport was established with patients and identification of intent was carried out by administering Beck Suicide Intent Scale. In step-II, mental illness was identified by administering Mood Disorder Questionnaire, Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire and subscale of Depression from Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale. In step-III, in order to confirm his / her responses and diagnosis, a detailed semi-structured clinical interview was carried out with each participant who responded positively to Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire. Result Results revealed that bipolar spectrum disorder, depression and antisocial personality disorder were significantly positive predictors of suicide intent among self-harm patients. On the other hand, narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality disorder were found to be significantly negative predictors of suicide intent among self-harm patients. Conclusion Results of current research highlighted those predisposing factors that discriminate self-harm from attempted suicide. The study has important implications for identification of intent of self-harm patients, which could help in devising a proper treatment plan for the management of such challenging patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naila Yaqoob
- Major Dr. Naila Yaqoob, Clinical Psychologist, CMH Multan, Pakistan
| | - Sadaf Ahsan
- Dr. Sadaf Ahsan Associate Professor, Foundation University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Chen PJ, Mackes N, Sacchi C, Lawrence AJ, Ma X, Pollard R, Matter M, Morgan C, Harding S, Schumann G, Pariante C, Mehta MA, Montana G, Nosarti C, Dazzan P. Parental education and youth suicidal behaviours: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2022; 31:e19. [PMID: 35352676 PMCID: PMC8967699 DOI: 10.1017/s204579602200004x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Lower parental education has been linked to adverse youth mental health outcomes. However, the relationship between parental education and youth suicidal behaviours remains unclear. We explored the association between parental education and youth suicidal ideation and attempts, and examined whether sociocultural contexts moderate such associations. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis with a systematic literature search in PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline and Embase from 1900 to December 2020 for studies with participants aged 0-18, and provided quantitative data on the association between parental education and youth suicidal ideation and attempts (death included). Only articles published in English in peer-reviewed journals were considered. Two authors independently assessed eligibility of the articles. One author extracted data [e.g. number of cases and non-cases in each parental education level, effect sizes in forms of odds ratios (ORs) or beta coefficients]. We then calculated pooled ORs using a random-effects model and used moderator analysis to investigate heterogeneity. RESULTS We included a total of 59 articles (63 study samples, totalling 2 738 374 subjects) in the meta-analysis. Lower parental education was associated with youth suicidal attempts [OR = 1.12, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.04-1.21] but not with suicidal ideation (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.98-1.12). Geographical region and country income level moderated the associations. Lower parental education was associated with an increased risk of youth suicidal attempts in Northern America (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.10-1.45), but with a decreased risk in Eastern and South-Eastern Asia (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.54-0.96). An association of lower parental education and increased risk of youth suicidal ideation was present in high- income countries (HICs) (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.05-1.25), and absent in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) (OR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.77-1.08). CONCLUSIONS The association between youth suicidal behaviours and parental education seems to differ across geographical and economical contexts, suggesting that cultural, psychosocial or biological factors may play a role in explaining this association. Although there was high heterogeneity in the studies reviewed, this evidence suggests that the role of familial sociodemographic characteristics in youth suicidality may not be universal. This highlights the need to consider cultural, as well as familial factors in the clinical assessment and management of youth's suicidal behaviours in our increasingly multicultural societies, as well as in developing prevention and intervention strategies for youth suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. J. Chen
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Taoyuan and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - N. Mackes
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - C. Sacchi
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - A. J. Lawrence
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - X. Ma
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - R. Pollard
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - M. Matter
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - C. Morgan
- Health Service & Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - S. Harding
- Division of Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - G. Schumann
- Biological Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - C. Pariante
- Biological Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - M. A. Mehta
- Department of Neuroimaging & Psychopharmacology, Centre of Neuroimaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - G. Montana
- Department of Data Science, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - C. Nosarti
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging & Health, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - P. Dazzan
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Gonzalez-Urdiales P, Kuppermann N, Dalziel SR, Prego J, Benito J, Mintegi S. Pediatric Intentional Self-poisoning Evaluated in the Emergency Department: An International Study. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e1631-e1636. [PMID: 32541402 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide is a growing public health problem during late childhood and adolescence. The leading method of suicide attempts in this age group is intentional self-poisoning. A first self-poisoning episode is a strong predictor of subsequent suicide and premature death. The objective of this study was to analyze the presentation and management of children younger than 18 years with intentional self-poisonings admitted to an emergency department (ED) in a global research network of pediatric EDs. METHODS We performed a secondary analysis of a large, international, multicenter, cross-sectional prospective registry of childhood poisoning presentations to 105 EDs in the Pediatric Emergency Research Networks (PERN) network. Data collection started at each ED between January and September 2013 and continued for 1 year. RESULTS During the study period, we included 1688 poisoning exposures. Of these, 233 (13.8%) were intentional self-poisonings, with significant variation between regions. Female/male ratio was 4.7/1 and most occurred at home. The most common toxicants were therapeutic drugs, mainly psychotropics and analgesics. Ninety patients (38.6%) gave a history of a previous episode of intentional self-poisoning. Sixty-three children (27.0%) were not assessed by a psychiatric service nor transferred to a psychiatric inpatient facility. No patient died. There was significant variation in the involved toxicants and interventions among EDs in different global regions. CONCLUSIONS Most intentional self-poisoning presentations to pediatric EDs globally are related to intentional ingestions of therapeutic drugs at home by females. Best practices have to be translated into care to guarantee the best outcomes of these patients.
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Comparison of Suicide Attempts and Suicide Deaths by Jumping from a High Place in Korean Children and Adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18189513. [PMID: 34574436 PMCID: PMC8466057 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Jumping from a high place is the most common method of suicide among Korean children and adolescents. The aim of this study was to examine the personal, family, and school life of Korean children and adolescents who chose jumping from a high place, among suicide attempts and suicide deaths, based on teachers’ reports. Data on suicide attempts and suicide deaths by jumping from a high place in children and adolescents were collected through the Ministry of Education in South Korea from 2016 to 2018. We compared sociodemographic variables, suicide-related variables, emotional and behavioral status, school life related variables, and variables related to family problems among suicide deaths (n = 262), actual suicide attempts (n = 50), and interrupted or aborted suicide attempts (n = 210). There were differences in educational stage (p < 0.001), place of suicide (p < 0.001), presence of suicide note (p < 0.05) and previous suicide attempt (p < 0.001) among the three groups. The total difficulty score on the Strength Difficulty Questionnaire of interrupted or aborted suicide attempts was higher than that of the other two groups. Our study suggests that the suicide death group tend to present fewer personal and family pathologies and better school adjustment than the suicide attempt group.
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Looijmans M, van Bergen D, Gilissen R, Popma A, Balt E, Creemers D, van Domburgh L, Mulder W, Rasing S, Mérelle S. Additional Value of Peer Informants in Psychological Autopsy Studies of Youth Suicides. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:2056-2068. [PMID: 34166153 PMCID: PMC8552373 DOI: 10.1177/10497323211022316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we examined the feasibility and added value of including peer informants in a psychological autopsy study of youth suicides. Peer semi-structured interview data from 16 cases were analyzed qualitatively and compared to parent data. Results show that peers added information to parents' narratives in general and particularly on social relationships, bullying, school experiences, social media, and family relations. Peers also provided additional information on the presence of certain issues (such as social media contagion) as well as on the emotional impact from certain adverse events that seemed to have functioned as precipitating factors. We conclude that including peers in psychological autopsy studies of youth suicides is feasible and of added value but that more research is desirable. The results initially can be used in the design of psychological autopsies so that the maximum amount of information about each suicide will be learned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milou Looijmans
- 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Diana van Bergen
- 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Arne Popma
- Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elias Balt
- 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daan Creemers
- GGZ Oost Brabant, Boekel, The Netherlands
- Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lieke van Domburgh
- Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Pluryn, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wico Mulder
- Dutch Center for Youth Health, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Rasing
- GGZ Oost Brabant, Boekel, The Netherlands
- Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Conner KR, Chapman BP, Beautrais AL, Brent DA, Bridge JA, Conwell Y, Falter T, Holbrook A, Schneider B. Introducing the Psychological Autopsy Methodology Checklist. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2021; 51:673-683. [PMID: 33559215 PMCID: PMC8378509 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Case-control psychological autopsy studies are the research standard for the postmortem, quantitative study of ongoing or recent risk factors for suicide. We aimed to develop a reliable checklist of methodological quality of these studies. METHOD We adapted items from a validated checklist to address general methodological elements and created novel items to address the unique aspects of psychological autopsy research to generate a 16-item checklist assessing reporting, external validity, internal validity, and power. We used percent agreement and kappa to evaluate inter-rater reliability of the items and overall checklist based on independent ratings of 26 case-control psychological autopsy studies conducted internationally. We also summed the items to generate overall quality ratings, assessing internal consistency with coefficient alpha (α). RESULTS Inter-rater reliability for the overall checklist was high (percent agreement, 86.5%) and that based conservatively on kappa was substantial (κ .71) whereas internal consistency was low (α = 0.56). The inter-rater reliability of the individual items showed acceptable to high agreement. CONCLUSION A novel checklist provides a reliable means to assess the methodological quality of specific elements of quantitative case-control psychological autopsy studies, providing detailed guidance in planning such studies. Lower internal consistency may limit its utility as a summary measure of study quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth R. Conner
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Benjamin P. Chapman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA,Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | | | - David A. Brent
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey A. Bridge
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Yeates Conwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Tyler Falter
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Amanda Holbrook
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Barbara Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy, Centre of Psychiatry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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11
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Balt E, Mérelle S, van Bergen D, Gilissen R, van der Post P, Looijmans M, Creemers D, Rasing S, Mulder W, van Domburgh L, Popma A. Gender differences in suicide-related communication of young suicide victims. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252028. [PMID: 34019584 PMCID: PMC8139476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is limited insight into gender differences in suicide-related communication (SRC) in youths. SRC is defined as "the act of conveying one's own suicide ideation, intent or behaviours to another person". Increasing our understanding of SRC in youths will enable us to recognize and specify needs of female versus male youths. The current study explores SRC in a sample of Dutch suicide victims aged under 20 and examines gender differences. METHODS Interview data from a psychological autopsy study of 35 youths who died by suicide in the Netherlands in 2017 were analysed. Qualitative analyses were performed to examine explicit SRC throughout the youths' lives and implicit SRC during the last months prior to suicide. We employed the Constant Comparative Method to explore patterns in the debut, form, frequency, medium, content, type of recipient, and SRC in the last months prior to suicide death. RESULTS We identified commonalities in the SRC of youths, including the content of suicide notes and an emphasis on suicide method and preparation in the last months. Girls, however, had an earlier debut of SRC, a higher frequency of explicit SRC, and more often directed SRC towards varied types of recipients compared to boys. Moreover, SRC of girls seemed focused on coping and achieving support from others more than SRC of boys. The SRC of boys in comparison to girls was often ambiguous or diluted by "humorous" connotations. CONCLUSION Unique patterns in SRC of boys and girls posed corresponding challenges for next of kin to interpret communications and respond adequately to SRC. The early debut of girls' SRC highlights the importance of early screening and prevention efforts in girls, while the late debut and ambiguity in boys' SRC implores professionals and next of kin to encourage young males to be unequivocal about suicide ideation or intent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Balt
- Research department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Mérelle
- Research department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Diana van Bergen
- Research department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Renske Gilissen
- Research department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Milou Looijmans
- Research department, 113 Suicide Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daan Creemers
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, GGZ Oost Brabant, Boekel, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Rasing
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, GGZ Oost Brabant, Boekel, The Netherlands
- Behavioral Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wico Mulder
- Youth healthcare, Dutch Centre for Youth Health (NCJ), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lieke van Domburgh
- Quality of Care & Innovation, Pluryn, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry & Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam University Medical Centre (AUMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arne Popma
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry & Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam University Medical Centre (AUMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Ben Khelil M, Zgarni A, Belghith M, Harzallah H, Zhioua M, Hamdoun M. Trends of juvenile and adolescent suicides in North Tunisia: a 12-year study. Public Health 2021; 194:223-231. [PMID: 33962100 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2021.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of our study was to analyze the epidemiological characteristics for suicide methods and factors over a 12-year period among child suicides in Northern Tunisia and to compare juvenile and adolescent suicides. STUDY DESIGN This is a cross-sectional study. METHODS We included all child and adolescent suicide cases that took place in the North of Tunisia over a 12 year period (2005-2016). Data were collected from medical records and judicial inquiries and were classified into three sections: sociodemographic data, the circumstances of suicide, and the autopsy findings. Data were then compared between the 'juvenile suicide group' and 'the adolescent suicide group', according to the WHO definition. RESULTS Casualties were equally males and females, mostly adolescents (74.5%), aged 15 years old on average. Hanging was the most frequent suicidal method. A peak of frequency was observed in 2014. CONCLUSION Our results suggested to focus, among other preventive measures, on the role of media coverage of child suicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ben Khelil
- Faculty of Medicine, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia; Department of Legal Medicine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - A Zgarni
- Faculty of Medicine, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - M Belghith
- Department of Legal Medicine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - H Harzallah
- Faculty of Medicine, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia; Department of Legal Medicine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - M Zhioua
- Faculty of Medicine, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia; Department of Legal Medicine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - M Hamdoun
- Faculty of Medicine, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia; Department of Legal Medicine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
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13
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Benton TD, Muhrer E, Jones JD, Lewis J. Dysregulation and Suicide in Children and Adolescents. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2021; 30:389-399. [PMID: 33743946 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Suicide rates continue to rise among children and adolescents; suicide is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Although research studies have identified factors associated with suicide risks for youths, none distinguishes those who have suicidal ideation from those who most likely will make an attempt or die by suicide. Most studies focus on psychiatric diagnoses associated with suicide risks. Recent studies suggest that cross-cutting symptom profiles may be a stronger predictor of risks for suicide than diagnosis. This article provides an overview of emotional dysregulation as it relates to suicidal ideation, intent, and behaviors for youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tami D Benton
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3440 Market Street, Suite 410, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Eli Muhrer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3440 Market Street, Suite 410, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jason D Jones
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3440 Market Street, Suite 410, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jason Lewis
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3440 Market Street, Suite 410, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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14
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Werbart Törnblom A, Sorjonen K, Runeson B, Rydelius PA. Life Events and Coping Strategies Among Young People Who Died by Suicide or Sudden Violent Death. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:670246. [PMID: 34512410 PMCID: PMC8429488 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.670246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Most empirically anchored psychological models of suicide focus either on the perceived situational stress or on vulnerability factors and coping deficits. The interaction between life stressors and vulnerability factors is less explored. Methods: This case-control study examines interactions between life events and coping strategies in three groups of young people: cases of suicide, cases of other sudden violent death (SVD), and control cases. Results: Four coping strategies, two more adaptive and two more maladaptive, were identified. Distinctive of the suicide and the SVD group was significantly less Planful Problem-Solving, and more Escape-Avoidance and Confrontive Coping than among the controls. Furthermore, Confrontive Coping had significantly higher level in the SVD group than in the suicide group. Between-group differences were partly accounted for differences in negative life events, early and late in life. Both target groups experienced significantly more adverse childhood experiences and recent stressful life events than the controls-the suicide group being more exposed to recent stressful life events even in comparison with the SVD group. This might indicate that adverse childhood experiences are a risk factor for both causes of death, whereas proximal stressful life events are a risk factor for death by suicide to a higher degree than for SVD. Conclusions: Improved understanding of the interplay between life events, both in the far past and present, and coping styles, may facilitate the identification of young people at risk of suicide and violent death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelie Werbart Törnblom
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kimmo Sorjonen
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bo Runeson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per-Anders Rydelius
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
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15
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Psychosocial risk factors and outcomes associated with suicide attempts in childhood: A retrospective study. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 125:129-135. [PMID: 32278224 PMCID: PMC7217666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine factors differentiating individuals whose first suicide attempt was during childhood (ages 5-12 yrs) from those who first attempted suicide during adolescence (13-19 yrs) and during adulthood (≥20 yrs). METHOD A sample of 418 participants (ages 18-64 yrs) with a mood disorder and ≥1 lifetime suicide attempt was divided into three groups according to age of first suicide attempt (childhood: N = 43, adolescent: N = 149, adulthood: N = 226) and compared on demographics, childhood adversity, parental psychopathology, comorbid lifetime axis I diagnoses, self-harm and characteristics of first attempt. RESULTS Participants in the Childhood Attempt group were more likely to report childhood adversity, parental alcohol use disorder and subsequent suicide attempts than the two other groups. They were also more likely to have a depressed mother, non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) during childhood and adolescence, lifetime PTSD and aggressive behavior than the Adulthood Attempt group. The Adolescent Attempt group had more childhood adversity, parental suicidal behavior, lifetime PTSD and NSSI during adolescence than the Adulthood Attempt group. The groups differed on methods of first attempt, and its lethality was related to age of attempt. CONCLUSIONS Early adversity and parental psychopathology are particularly prominent in those who make childhood suicide attempts, suggesting that this group may represent a suicidal behavior subtype.
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16
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Kothgassner OD, Robinson K, Goreis A, Ougrin D, Plener PL. Does treatment method matter? A meta-analysis of the past 20 years of research on therapeutic interventions for self-harm and suicidal ideation in adolescents. Borderline Personal Disord Emot Dysregul 2020; 7:9. [PMID: 32426138 PMCID: PMC7216729 DOI: 10.1186/s40479-020-00123-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-harm is a clinically relevant and prevalent behaviour which peaks in adolescence. Given the high prevalence of self-harm, the high levels of psychiatric comorbidity, and its role as a risk factor for suicide, delivering evidence-based care is critical. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature on treating self-harm in adolescents (12-19 years) published in the last 20 years, identifying 25 randomised controlled trials. We calculated the effect of treatment interventions relative to active control conditions in reducing self-harm, suicidal ideation and depressive symptoms. RESULTS Overall, treatment interventions fared slightly better than active controls in decreasing self-harm (d = 0.13, 95% CI 0.04-0.22, p = .004), suicidal ideation (d = 0.31, 95% CI 0.12-0.50, p = .001) and depressive symptoms (d = 0.22, 95% CI 0.07-0.38, p = .006). Subgroup analysis of specific therapies revealed moderate effects of DBT-A in reducing self-harm (d = 0.51, 95% CI 0.18-0.85, p = .002) and suicidal ideation (d = 0.48, 95% CI 0.17-0.80, p = .003), as well as moderate effects of family-centred therapy in the treating suicidal ideation (d = 0.58, 95% CI 0.01-1.15, p = .049). CONCLUSIONS The findings of our meta-analysis indicate that, overall, currently available treatments are effective in treating self-harm, suicidal ideation, and depressive symptoms in adolescence. Although the treatment intervention conditions showed only small to moderate effects in comparison to active controls, these differences were statistically significant and are clinically important. Further research is needed to understand the reduction in self-harm within active controls, which may arise due to the natural course of self-harm, or the potential efficacy of treatment as usual and enhanced usual care. Given the significant reduction of self-harm in active control conditions, delivering effective care to a large number of adolescents with self-harm may require developing stepped-care models in clinical practice. Expensive and poorly available treatments should be targeted at young people who most need them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oswald D Kothgassner
- 1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kealagh Robinson
- 2School of Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Andreas Goreis
- 3Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,4Outpatient Unit for Research, Teaching and Practice, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dennis Ougrin
- 5Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paul L Plener
- 1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,6Department of Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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17
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Characterisation of depressive symptoms in young children with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2019; 28:1183-1192. [PMID: 30697638 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-018-01274-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Depressive symptoms and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are prevalent and commonly co-occur in childhood. To assist with early identification of depression in children with ADHD, we aimed to: (1) use factor analysis to determine whether the construct of depression is measured consistently in those with and without ADHD; and (2) determine whether overall depressive symptoms and specific depressive symptoms were elevated in children with ADHD relative to controls. Participants comprised a community-based sample of 179 children with ADHD (51% Combined presentation, 35% Inattentive presentation) and 212 non-ADHD controls aged 6-8 years. Participants were screened for ADHD and underwent a structured diagnostic interview which confirmed ADHD status and assessed depressive symptoms. The factor structure of depressive symptoms was similar, enabling comparisons between the two groups to be made. Eighteen children with ADHD (10%) and three control participants (1%) experienced either MDD or subthreshold MDD. Children with ADHD experienced more depressive symptoms than controls (Cohen's d =1.19, p < 0.001), with the following symptoms elevated in children with ADHD relative to controls: sadness (32% vs. 14%, p < 0.001), irritability (52% vs. 19%, p < 0.001), insomnia (56% vs. 22%, p < 0.001), psychomotor agitation (53% vs. 9%, p < 0.001), feeling bad about oneself (50% vs. 24%, p < 0.001), difficulty concentrating (75% vs. 14%, p < 0.001) and making decisions (56% vs. 17%, p < 0.001). This study provides support for the occurrence of depressive symptoms in children with ADHD as young as six and highlights the importance of early assessment for depressive symptoms in children with ADHD.
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18
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Turner BJ, Kleiman EM, Nock MK. Non-suicidal self-injury prevalence, course, and association with suicidal thoughts and behaviors in two large, representative samples of US Army soldiers. Psychol Med 2019; 49:1470-1480. [PMID: 30131080 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291718002015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) prospectively predicts suicidal thoughts and behaviors in civilian populations. Despite high rates of suicide among US military members, little is known about the prevalence and course of NSSI, or how NSSI relates to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, in military personnel. METHODS We conducted secondary analyses of two representative surveys of active-duty soldiers (N = 21 449) and newly enlisted soldiers (N = 38 507) from the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS). RESULTS The lifetime prevalence of NSSI is 6.3% (1.2% 12-month prevalence) in active-duty soldiers and 7.9% (1.3% 12-month prevalence) in new soldiers. Demographic risk factors for lifetime NSSI include female sex, younger age, non-Hispanic white ethnicity, never having married, and lower educational attainment. The association of NSSI with temporally primary internalizing and externalizing disorders varies by service history (new v. active-duty soldiers) and gender (men v. women). In both active-duty and new soldiers, NSSI is associated with increased odds of subsequent onset of suicidal ideation [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.66-1.81] and suicide attempts (adjusted OR = 2.02-2.43), although not with the transition from ideation to attempt (adjusted OR = 0.92-1.36). Soldiers with a history of NSSI are more likely to have made multiple suicide attempts, compared with soldiers without NSSI. CONCLUSIONS NSSI is prevalent among US Army soldiers and is associated with significantly increased odds of later suicidal thoughts and behaviors, even after NSSI has resolved. Suicide risk assessments in military populations should screen for history of NSSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna J Turner
- Department of Psychology,University of Victoria,Victoria, BC,Canada
| | - Evan M Kleiman
- Department of Psychology,Harvard University,Cambridge, MA,USA
| | - Matthew K Nock
- Department of Psychology,Harvard University,Cambridge, MA,USA
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19
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Benarous X, Consoli A, Cohen D, Renaud J, Lahaye H, Guilé JM. Suicidal behaviors and irritability in children and adolescents: a systematic review of the nature and mechanisms of the association. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2019; 28:667-683. [PMID: 30293122 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-018-1234-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
While many psychiatric disorders are associated with an increased risk for suicidal behaviors (SB) in children and adolescents, a few studies have explored the role of clinical symptoms based on a dimensional approach. Irritability is seen as a marker, a general psychopathology, and a symptom of both externalizing and internalizing disorders. In this review, we are interested in determining whether and how irritability can predict SB in youth. First, we reviewed consistencies and variation in the literature linking irritability to suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempt (SA). Second, based on the available models, we proposed specific mechanistic pathways, whereby irritability may modulate the risk for SB. Irritability has been found associated with SB both in cross-sectional and in longitudinal studies. The relation is consistent in different settings (i.e., general population and clinical settings) and across psychiatric disorders. The association is reduced but persists after adjusting for psychiatric disorder, including depression. On one hand, irritability constitutes a risk factor for SI via the onset of internalized disorder. On the other hand, irritable youth may be more prone to attempt suicide when experiencing SI. The measures for irritability were heterogeneous. A limited number of studies were designed to explore the role of mediators and/or moderators. Recognizing irritability in children and adolescents is a key issue with regards to suicide prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Benarous
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, 83, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013, Paris, France. .,INSERM Unit U1105 Research Group for Analysis of the Multimodal Cerebral Function, University of Picardy Jules Verne (UPJV), Amiens, France.
| | - Angèle Consoli
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, 83, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013, Paris, France.,GRC-15, Dimensional approach of Child and Adolescent Psychotic Episodes, Pierre and Marie Curie University (UPMC), Paris, France
| | - David Cohen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, 83, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR 7222, Institute for Intelligent Systems and Robotics, Sorbonne Université, UPMC, Paris, France
| | - Johanne Renaud
- Manulife Centre for Breakthroughs in Teen Depression and Suicide Prevention, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Hélène Lahaye
- Child and Adolescent Psychopathology Department, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France
| | - Jean-Marc Guilé
- INSERM Unit U1105 Research Group for Analysis of the Multimodal Cerebral Function, University of Picardy Jules Verne (UPJV), Amiens, France.,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Child and Adolescent Psychopathology Department, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France
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20
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Lee S, Dwyer J, Paul E, Clarke D, Treleaven S, Roseby R. Differences by age and sex in adolescent suicide. Aust N Z J Public Health 2019; 43:248-253. [PMID: 30786107 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare demographic and psychosocial characteristics of completed suicide between younger and older adolescents, and by sex. METHODS Data was collected from the Victorian Suicide Register, which contains information on suicides reported to the Coroners Court of Victoria. RESULTS Between 2006 and 2015, there were 273 completed suicides aged 10-19 years, with none aged 10-12 years. There were 171 (63%) suicides in the older adolescent group (17-19 years), and 102 (37%) in the younger group (13-16 years). Males comprised 184 cases (67%) and females 89 (33%). A higher proportion of both younger and female adolescents had experienced abuse, peer conflict and bullying. There was also a higher incidence of previous self-harm in younger and female adolescents. Older adolescents were more likely to not be in formal education, employment or training. CONCLUSION Suicide in younger adolescents and females appear to share characteristics, and differ from older and male adolescents. Negative interpersonal relationships and previous self-harm with possible co-existenting mental illness appear to be key differentiating features. Implications for public health: Understanding completed suicide is an important step towards prevention, and our results suggest a need for developmentally and sex-specific suicide prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Lee
- Monash Children's Hospital, Victoria.,Coroners Prevention Unit, Coroners Court of Victoria
| | - Jeremy Dwyer
- Coroners Prevention Unit, Coroners Court of Victoria.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne
| | - Eldho Paul
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Victoria
| | - David Clarke
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Victoria.,Monash Health, Victoria
| | - Sophie Treleaven
- Monash Children's Hospital, Victoria.,Consultative Council on Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity (CCOPMM), Victoria
| | - Robert Roseby
- Monash Children's Hospital, Victoria.,Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Victoria
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21
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Conner KR, Bridge JA, Davidson DJ, Pilcher C, Brent DA. Metaanalysis of Mood and Substance Use Disorders in Proximal Risk for Suicide Deaths. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2019; 49:278-292. [PMID: 29193261 PMCID: PMC8378507 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Evidence for proximal risk factors for suicide is based on case-control psychological autopsy studies, with these reports showing that mood and substance use disorders are the most prevalent mental disorders among suicide decedents worldwide and are associated with marked risk. However, moderators of risk and the degree of risk associated with (nonalcohol) drug use disorder are unknown. A comprehensive search was used to identify 35 case-control psychological autopsy studies published worldwide over a 30-year period that were metaanalyzed using random effects models. Major depression, odds ratio (95% confidence interval) = 9.14 (5.53, 15.09), and drug use disorder, OR (95% CI) = 7.18 (3.22, 16.01), had large effect sizes, among other results. Risk estimates associated with major depression were greater in studies with a larger proportion of women and those conducted in Asia compared with other regions. There was no evidence of publication bias or that any one study had a disproportionate impact on findings. Risk for suicide associated with major depression appears to be moderated by sex and/or world region. Drug use disorder is a potent risk factor, illustrating the importance of assessing drug use in clinical risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey A. Bridge
- Nationwide Children's Hospital; Columbus OH USA
- Ohio State University; Columbus OH USA
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22
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Al-Mateen CS, Jones K, Linker J, O'Keefe D, Cimolai V. Clinician Response to a Child Who Completes Suicide. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2018; 27:621-635. [PMID: 30219223 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Although suicide is a leading cause of death for children and adolescents, there is a dearth of literature on clinician responses to suicides in that age group. However, most psychiatrists experience the death of a patient by suicide, with resulting grief reactions including shock, isolation, rumination, self-doubt, and impact on clinical decision making. The impact is more pronounced in trainee clinicians. Postvention is the clinical, administrative, legal, and emotional processes following a suicide. These processes are discussed in detail, with recommendations for policies and training that assist clinicians with this tragic, but common, professional crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl S Al-Mateen
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, PO Box 980489, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1308 Sherwood Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220, USA.
| | - Kathryn Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, PO Box 980489, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1308 Sherwood Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220, USA
| | - Julie Linker
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, PO Box 980489, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1308 Sherwood Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220, USA
| | - Dorothy O'Keefe
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, PO Box 980489, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1308 Sherwood Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220, USA
| | - Valentina Cimolai
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, PO Box 980489, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1308 Sherwood Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220, USA
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23
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Smith AR, Zuromski KL, Dodd DR. Eating disorders and suicidality: what we know, what we don’t know, and suggestions for future research. Curr Opin Psychol 2018; 22:63-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2017.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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24
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Ardiles-Irarrázabal RA, Alfaro-Robles PA, Díaz-Mancilla IE, Martínez-Guzmán VV. Riesgo de suicidio adolescente en localidades urbanas y rurales por género, región de Coquimbo, Chile. AQUICHAN 2018. [DOI: 10.5294/aqui.2018.18.2.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objetivo: comparar el riesgo de suicidio de adolescentes de enseñanza media, residentes de localidades urbanas y rurales por género en la Región de Coquimbo, Chile. Material y método: la investigación es de tipo cuantitativo descriptivo no experimental, en una muestra no probabilística. En noviembre del 2016, de forma anónima, se aplicó el Cuestionario de Screening de Suicidalidad de Okasha, sobre tendencia suicida, a una muestra de 349 adolescentes de 14-19 años (48,7 % hombres-51,3 % mujeres), que asistían a establecimientos educativos urbanos y rurales, de la región de Coquimbo, en Chile. Se utilizó una ANOVA de dos vías para las variables localidad y género. Resultados: no existen diferencias en el riesgo de suicidio según localización geográfica, pero sí por género; se presentó un 15,76 % de adolescentes femeninas con riesgo suicida. Conclusiones: el suicidio es un problema de salud pública mundial, sobre el que no se ha abordado adecuadamente a nivel de prevención y promoción en salud; existe diversidad de factores que influyen en el riesgo suicida y el factor asociado al género femenino presenta un mayor riesgo; mientras que la ubicación geográfica de residencia no registra riesgo.
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Suicide in adolescents: findings from the Swiss National cohort. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2018; 27:47-56. [PMID: 28664290 PMCID: PMC5799333 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-017-1019-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Suicide in adolescents is the second most common cause of death in this age group and an important public health problem. We examined sociodemographic factors associated with suicide in Swiss adolescents and analysed time trends in youth suicide in the Swiss National Cohort (SNC). The SNC is a longitudinal study of the whole Swiss resident population, based on linkage of census and mortality records. We identified suicides in adolescents aged 10-18 years from 1991 to 2013. A total of 2.396 million adolescents were included and 592 suicides were recorded, corresponding to a rate of 3.7 per 100,000 [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.4-4.0]. Rates increased with age from 0.0 per 100,000 at age 10 years to 14.8 per 100,000 (95% CI 12.6-17.5) at 18 years in boys, and from 0.0 to 5.4 per 100,000 (4.1-7.2) in girls. Being a boy, living in a single parent household, being an only or middle-born child, and living in rural regions were factors associated with a higher rate of suicide. Hanging was the most common method in boys, and railway suicides were most frequent in girls. There was no clear evidence for an increase or decrease over calendar time. We conclude that familial and socioeconomic factors including type of household, birth order and urbanity are associated with youth suicide in Switzerland. These factors should be considered when designing prevention programmes for youth suicide.
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Suicidal deaths in elementary school students in Korea. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2017; 11:53. [PMID: 29021825 PMCID: PMC5622440 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-017-0190-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics of childhood suicidal deaths among elementary school students that occurred from 2011 to 2015 in Korea. METHODS The report form of each suicide case by the teacher in charge to the Education Ministry was reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS There were 19 suicidal deaths (12 boys, 7 girls) in elementary school students. The youngest case was a third grader (n = 1). Jumping from heights (n = 12) was the most frequently used method. Most suicides (n = 12) were committed in their homes. CONCLUSION These results highlight the alarming trend of early suicidal deaths and the importance of early suicide prevention strategies, especially in schools.
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Sousa GSD, Santos MSPD, Silva ATPD, Perrelli JGA, Sougey EB. Revisão de literatura sobre suicídio na infância. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2017; 22:3099-3110. [DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232017229.14582017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Objetivou-se analisar a literatura específica sobre os fatores associados ao comportamento suicida em crianças com até 14 anos. Trata-se, portanto, de uma revisão integrativa sobre este tema. Os dados foram coletados nas bases de dados PubMed e Psycinfo, a partir dos seguintes descritores: “risk of suicide”; “children”; “suicide”; “childhood”. O tempo de publicação foi limitado ao período de 1980 a 2016. Um total de 29 artigos preencheu os critérios de elegibilidade e, portanto, foram selecionados e analisados. Os resultados indicaram haver associação do suicídio com fatores neurobiológicos, escolares, sociais e mentais, dentre eles destaca-se o papel da impulsividade. Além disso, evidenciou-se que a maioria dos fatores de vulnerabilidade ao comportamento suicida podem ser prevenidos desde que sejam identificados e a criança receba tratamento psicológico e médico. Conclui-se que conflitos familiares, problemas na escola, bullying, impulsividade e depressão estão associados ao suicídio na infância. Adicionalmente, a escassez de pesquisas no âmbito nacional acerca da temática do suicídio pode contribuir para a invisibilidade desse tema na instauração de programas de promoção e tratamento de saúde.
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Zainum K, Cohen MC. Suicide patterns in children and adolescents: a review from a pediatric institution in England. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2017; 13:115-122. [PMID: 28349246 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-017-9860-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Suicide is a catastrophic event to both families and communities yet it is potentially preventable. This study aims to determine incidence and patterns of suicide in children and young adolescents in our region, raise awareness of this entity as a potentially preventable cause of death in this age group, and identify its possible associated risk factors. We retrospectively reviewed suicide cases presenting as sudden unexpected death in children and adolescents that underwent coronial post-mortems at our institution. This is the largest pathological review of completed suicide in children and young adolescents within a single institution in the United Kingdom. We identified 23 suicide cases during a 12 year period from 2003 to 2015, in which 18 cases (78%) were male and 5 cases (22%) were female. The age range was from 8 to 16 years (mean age 12.82 +/- 2.52 SD). With the exception of one case, all of the victims were Caucasian. The majority, 19 cases (81%), were found dead inside their place of residence, 15 of whom were discovered in their own bedrooms. Twenty-one cases (91%) died from neck compression due to hanging; 6 cases (26%) had used the cord of a dressing gown and 5 (22%) opted to use a belt as the ligature. Two cases (9%) that died from multiple-drug toxicity were female. In 7 cases (30.5%) there was evidence of self-harm and in 3 cases (13%) there was a history of previous suicide attempts. Petechial hemorrhages were found at autopsy in more than half of hanging victims and only three cases (14%) displayed dual distribution of post-mortem hypostasis (back and legs). Seven victims (30.5%) left some form of suicide message to family members and friends, 2 of which wrote the message on their arm. Parental separation, conflict with parents, and depression, were common amongst decedents prior to committing suicide. Substance abuse was uncommon in suicide within our cases. Valuable information is available from thorough review of suicide data in children and young adolescents from a single institution. Pathologists and clinicians can play crucial roles in identifying potential risk factors that may contribute to prevent future deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khairul Zainum
- Department of Histopathology, Sheffield Children's Hospital Foundation Trust, Western Bank, S10 2TH, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bharu, Johore, Malaysia
| | - Marta C Cohen
- Department of Histopathology, Sheffield Children's Hospital Foundation Trust, Western Bank, S10 2TH, Sheffield, UK.
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Soole R, Kõlves K, De Leo D. Factors related to childhood suicides: analysis of the Queensland Child Death Register. CRISIS 2016; 35:292-300. [PMID: 25163846 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide among children under the age of 15 years is a leading cause of death. AIMS The aim of the current study is to identify demographic, psychosocial, and psychiatric factors associated with child suicides. METHOD Using external causes of deaths recorded in the Queensland Child Death Register, a case-control study design was applied. Cases were suicides of children (10-14 years) and adolescents (15-17 years); controls were other external causes of death in the same age band. RESULTS Between 2004 and 2012, 149 suicides were recorded: 34 of children aged 10-14 years and 115 of adolescents aged 15-17 years. The gender asymmetry was less evident in child suicides and suicides were significantly more prevalent in indigenous children. Children residing in remote areas were significantly more likely to die by suicide than other external causes compared with children in metropolitan areas. Types of precipitating events differed between children and adolescents, with children more likely to experience family problems. Disorders usually diagnosed during infancy, childhood, and adolescence (e.g., ADHD) were significantly more common among children compared with adolescents who died by suicide. CONCLUSION Psychosocial and environmental aspects of children, in addition to mental health and behavioral difficulties, are important in the understanding of suicide in this age group and in the development of targeted suicide prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Soole
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, National Centre of Excellence in Suicide Prevention, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kairi Kõlves
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, National Centre of Excellence in Suicide Prevention, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Diego De Leo
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, National Centre of Excellence in Suicide Prevention, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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Motor Problems as a Risk Factor for Poorer Mental Health in Children and Adolescents: What Do We Know and Should We Be Screening for Psychological Difficulties in Those with Poor Motor Skills? CURRENT DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40474-016-0091-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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A Preliminary Application of Social Cognitive Theory to Nonsuicidal Self-Injury. J Youth Adolesc 2016; 45:1560-74. [DOI: 10.1007/s10964-016-0449-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Lundervold AJ, Hinshaw SP, Sørensen L, Posserud MB. Co-occurring symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in a population-based sample of adolescents screened for depression. BMC Psychiatry 2016; 16:46. [PMID: 26915733 PMCID: PMC4768418 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-016-0739-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is common in adolescents, with a gender bias towards girls. Symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) tend to co-occur in depressed adolescents. This may be related to common features between the two symptom domains, but co-occurring ADHD symptoms may also inflate the severity of depression. The present study investigates the frequency and influence of ADHD symptoms co-occurring with depression in a gender balanced population-based sample of Norwegian adolescents. METHODS A sample of 9614 adolescents (16-19 years) completed a questionnaire including the short version of the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (sMFQ) and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), with items reflecting symptoms associated with depression and ADHD, respectively. The sMFQ sum score was used as a proxy for severity of depression, and adolescents with a score equal to or above the 90th percentile were defined as depressed. A high response on any of the ASRS items was used to define the presence of an ADHD symptom, and the number of high scores was used to indicate severity. RESULTS ADHD symptoms were frequently reported by the adolescents, with a higher frequency in girls than in boys. The gender differences were, however, minor when the analysis was restricted to the adolescents defined as depressed. Each severe symptom reported on the ASRS contributed significantly to increase the sum score on the sMFQ, and more than 20 % of the adolescents defined as depressed reported six or more symptoms within the ASRS inattention subscale. CONCLUSIONS The results emphasize the importance of screening for symptoms associated with ADHD when assessing adolescents presenting symptoms indicating depression. Although girls reported higher frequency of symptoms within both domains, the gender bias was dependent on the overall symptom severity. Awareness of co-occurrence of symptoms and gender biases are of importance for both clinical work and future research on mental health and service use in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astri J. Lundervold
- Department of Biological and Medical Psychology, Jonas Lies vei 91, Bergen, Norway ,Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, Uni Research, Bergen, 5002 Norway ,K. G. Jebsen Center for Research on Neuropsychiatric Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, 5009 Norway
| | - Stephen P. Hinshaw
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, CA USA ,Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Lin Sørensen
- Department of Biological and Medical Psychology, Jonas Lies vei 91, Bergen, Norway. .,K. G. Jebsen Center for Research on Neuropsychiatric Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, 5009, Norway.
| | - Maj-Britt Posserud
- Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, Uni Research, Bergen, 5002, Norway. .,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway. .,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Norway.
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Cho SE, Na KS, Cho SJ, Im JS, Kang SG. Geographical and temporal variations in the prevalence of mental disorders in suicide: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2016; 190:704-713. [PMID: 26600412 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2015.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 11/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to the previous studies reporting that most suicides occur among people with mental disorders, recent studies have reported various rates of mental disorders in suicide in different geographical regions. We aimed to comprehensively investigate the factors influencing the variation in the prevalence of mental disorders reported among suicide victims. METHOD The authors searched Embase, Medline, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library to identify psychological autopsy studies reporting the prevalence of any mental disorders among suicide victims. A meta-regression analysis was conducted to identify the potential effects of geographical regions, the year of publication, measurements of personality disorder, measurements of comorbidity, and the ratio of females on the prevalence of mental disorders in addition to examining the heterogeneity across studies. RESULTS From 4475 potentially relevant studies, 48 studies met eligibility criteria, with 6626 suicide victims. The studies from East Asia had a significantly lower mean prevalence (69.6% [95% CI=56.8 to 80.0]) than those in North America (88.2% [95% CI=79.7-93.5]) and South Asia (90.4% [95% CI=71.8-97.2]). The prevalence of any mental disorder decreased according to the year of publication (coefficients=-0.0715, p<0.001). LIMITATIONS Substantial heterogeneities were identified within all subgroup analyses. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of mental disorders among suicide cases seemed relatively low in the East Asia region, and recently published studies tended to report a lower prevalence of mental disorders. The link between the risk factors and suicide in the absence of a mental disorder should be examined in different geographical and sociocultural contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo-Eun Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Sae Na
- Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seong-Jin Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Soo Im
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Gul Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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Whalen DJ, Dixon-Gordon K, Belden AC, Barch D, Luby JL. Correlates and Consequences of Suicidal Cognitions and Behaviors in Children Ages 3 to 7 Years. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2015; 54:926-37.e2. [PMID: 26506583 PMCID: PMC4677777 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2015.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite research documenting the existence of depression and other psychiatric disorders in early childhood, little is known about the nature and consequences of suicidal cognitions and behaviors (SI) in young children ages 3 to 7 years. The identification of trajectories of SI across childhood is a critical step toward preventing childhood suicide. METHOD Participants were 306 children enrolled in a prospective longitudinal investigation of young children and their families. Children and their families completed a baseline assessment between ages 3 and 7 years, and at least 1 follow-up assessment (ages 7-12 years). Child psychopathology, suicidal thoughts, plans, and behaviors were assessed via parent and trained interviewer report before age 9, and also with self-report after age 9. Data on maternal history of psychopathology, as well as maternal and family history of suicide attempts, were also obtained through parent report. RESULTS Controlling for a range of clinical and demographic variables, early-childhood SI (as defined as suicidal thoughts, behavior, or any expression of plans/attempts occurring before age 7) and suicidal themes in play were concurrently associated with childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity (ADHD) and oppositional defiant/conduct disorders (ODD/CD). Early-childhood SI also predicted school-age depression and ODD/CD; however, these findings were no longer significant after controlling for the same diagnoses at the childhood baseline. Longitudinal analysis indicated that early-childhood SI was a robust predictor of school-age SI, even after accounting for psychiatric disorders at both time points. CONCLUSION Extending current research, these findings demonstrate that early-childhood SI confers significant risk for continuation into school-age SI and is concurrently associated with ADHD and ODD/CD. Although the meaning of early-childhood SI remains unclear, results suggest that it is a clinically important phenomenon that should be carefully assessed and taken seriously as a marker of risk for ongoing suicidal ideation/behavior. These findings suggest that early screening for SI in childhood is indicated in clinical settings, particularly in children less than 7 years of age with depression and externalizing disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Deanna Barch
- Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Also with Washington University
| | - Joan L. Luby
- Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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J Haabrekke K, Siqveland T, Smith L, Wentzel-Larsen T, Walhovd KB, Moe V. Mother-Child Interaction and Early Language Skills in Children Born to Mothers with Substance Abuse and Psychiatric Problems. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2015; 46:702-14. [PMID: 25300194 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-014-0512-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This prospective, longitudinal study with data collected at four time points investigated how maternal psychiatric symptoms, substance abuse and maternal intrusiveness in interaction were related to early child language skills. Three groups of mothers were recruited during pregnancy: One from residential treatment institutions for substance abuse (n = 18), one from psychiatric outpatient treatment (n = 22) and one from well-baby clinics (n = 30). Maternal substance abuse and anti-social and borderline personality traits were assessed during pregnancy, postpartum depression at 3 months, maternal intrusiveness in interaction at 12 months, and child language skills at 2 years. Results showed that the mothers in the substance abuse group had the lowest level of education, they were younger and they were more likely to be single mothers than the mothers in the two other groups. There was a significant difference in expressive language between children born to mothers with substance abuse problems and those born to comparison mothers, however not when controlling for maternal age, education and single parenthood. No group differences in receptive language skills were detected. Results further showed that maternal intrusiveness observed in mother-child interaction at 12 months was significantly related to child expressive language at 2 years, also when controlling for socio-demographic risk factors. This suggests that in addition to addressing substance abuse and psychiatric problems, there is a need for applying treatment models promoting sensitive caregiving, in order to enhance child expressive language skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin J Haabrekke
- National Network for Infant Mental Health, the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Oslo, Norway,
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Waseem M, Diaz-Guerrero RJ, Cosme R, Ain Y, Leber M, Gerber LM. Do all children with suicidal ideation receive a significant psychiatric intervention? Pediatr Int 2015; 57:381-4. [PMID: 25330120 DOI: 10.1111/ped.12527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Revised: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In most physicians' minds, suicidal ideation carries with it an ominous prognosis requiring intensive evaluation and treatment. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the proportion of children identified with suicide ideation who received a significant psychiatric intervention. METHODS Medical records were reviewed for psychiatric interventions of all children presenting to the emergency department (ED) with behavioral disorders between 2004 and 2007, for whom a psychiatry consultation was obtained. Suicidal children were those who had expressed suicidal ideation. Significant psychiatric intervention was defined as one of the following: hospitalization in a psychiatric facility, period of observation in the ED (≥ 12 h), use of restraints, and prescription of psychiatric medication. Suicidal labeling was considered appropriate if one or more of the aforementioned interventions were recommended by a psychiatrist. The presence of psychiatric intervention was compared with that in children who presented with a behavioral disorder, not labeled as suicidal. Chi-squared or Fisher's exact test, whenever appropriate, was used to evaluate the association between suicide status and intervention. RESULTS A total of 160 children (27.1%) were labeled as suicidal, and 431 (72.9%) with a behavioral disorder were classified as non-suicidal. A total of 244/431 (56.6%) in the non-suicidal group had a significant psychiatric intervention compared to 79/160 (49.4%) in the suicidal ideation group (P = 0.116). This 49.4% is significantly different from an a priori assumption that 100% of children with suicidal ideation would have a significant psychiatric intervention. CONCLUSION More than half (50.6%) of the children presenting with a label of suicidal ideation did not receive significant psychiatric intervention. This study calls into question the accuracy of suicide labeling in children referred to the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Waseem
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | - Rosario Cosme
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Yumna Ain
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Mark Leber
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Linda M Gerber
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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Labouliere CD, Kleinman M, Gould MS. When self-reliance is not safe: associations between reduced help-seeking and subsequent mental health symptoms in suicidal adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:3741-55. [PMID: 25837350 PMCID: PMC4410213 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120403741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The majority of suicidal adolescents have no contact with mental health services, and reduced help-seeking in this population further lessens the likelihood of accessing treatment. A commonly-reported reason for not seeking help is youths’ perception that they should solve problems on their own. In this study, we explore associations between extreme self-reliance behavior (i.e., solving problems on your own all of the time), help-seeking behavior, and mental health symptoms in a community sample of adolescents. Approximately 2150 adolescents, across six schools, participated in a school-based suicide prevention screening program, and a subset of at-risk youth completed a follow-up interview two years later. Extreme self-reliance was associated with reduced help-seeking, clinically-significant depressive symptoms, and serious suicidal ideation at the baseline screening. Furthermore, in a subset of youth identified as at-risk at the baseline screening, extreme self-reliance predicted level of suicidal ideation and depressive symptoms two years later even after controlling for baseline symptoms. Given these findings, attitudes that reinforce extreme self-reliance behavior may be an important target for youth suicide prevention programs. Reducing extreme self-reliance in youth with suicidality may increase their likelihood of appropriate help-seeking and concomitant reductions in symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christa D Labouliere
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, The New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Marjorie Kleinman
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, The New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Madelyn S Gould
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, The New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Freuchen A, Grøholt B. Characteristics of suicide notes of children and young adolescents: an examination of the notes from suicide victims 15 years and younger. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2015; 20:194-206. [PMID: 24096369 DOI: 10.1177/1359104513504312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE By analysing the suicide notes from suicide victims 15 years and younger, we attempt to gain insight into the process leading to youth suicide and explore the characteristics of the note writers. METHOD During a psychological autopsy on 42 youths, we were entrusted with 23 suicide notes in which we explored the themes and compared the note writers to the non-note writers. RESULTS The key messages were as follows: explain the reason for suicide, declare love and give instructions. The note writers had showed suicidal behaviour more frequently than non-note writers. CONCLUSION In the notes from youth suicide victims they present themselves as fully responsible and without confusion or overwhelming despair. The notes are likely equally informative as the notes of older victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Freuchen
- University of Oslo, Norway Sørlandet Hospital, Norway
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Ceballos-Espinoza F. Aplicación forense de la autopsia psicológica en muertes de alta complejidad. ANUARIO DE PSICOLOGÍA JURÍDICA 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apj.2015.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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Abstract
The objective of this study was to provide a review of studies on suicide in children aged 14 years and younger. Articles were identified through a systematic search of Scopus, MEDLINE, and PsychINFO. Key words were "children, suicide, psychological autopsy, and case-study." Additional articles were identified through manual search of reference lists and discussion with colleagues. Fifteen published articles were identified, 8 psychological autopsy studies (PA), and 7 retrospective case-study series. Suicide incidence and gender asymmetry increases with age. Hanging is the most frequent method. Lower rates of psychopathology are evident among child suicides compared to adolescents. Previous suicide attempts were an important risk factor. Children were less likely to consume alcohol prior to suicide. Parent-child conflicts were the most common precipitant.
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Stensland SO, Thoresen S, Wentzel-Larsen T, Zwart JA, Dyb G. Recurrent headache and interpersonal violence in adolescence: the roles of psychological distress, loneliness and family cohesion: the HUNT study. J Headache Pain 2014; 15:35. [PMID: 24912800 PMCID: PMC4085726 DOI: 10.1186/1129-2377-15-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recurrent headache is the most common and disabling pain condition in adolescence. Co-occurrence of psychosocial adversity is associated with increased risk of chronification and functional impairment. Exposure to interpersonal violence seems to constitute an important etiological factor. Thus, knowledge of the multiple pathways linking interpersonal violence to recurrent headache could help guide preventive and clinical interventions. In the present study we explored a hypothetical causal model where the link between exposure to interpersonal violence and recurrent headache is mediated in parallel through loneliness and psychological distress. Higher level of family cohesion and male sex is hypothesized to buffer the adverse effect of exposure to interpersonal violence on headache. Methods The model was assessed using data from the cross-sectional, population-based Young-HUNT 3 study of Norwegian adolescents, conducted from 2006–2008. A cohort of 10 464 adolescents were invited. The response rate was 73% (7620), age ranged from 12 and 20 years, and 50% (3832) were girls. The study comprised self-report measures of exposure to interpersonal violence, loneliness, psychological distress and family cohesion, in addition to a validated interview on headache, meeting the International Classification of Headache Disorders criteria. Recurrent headache was defined as headache recurring at least monthly during the past year, and sub-classified into monthly and weekly headache, which served as separate outcomes. Results In Conditional Process Analysis, loneliness and psychological distress consistently posed as parallel mediating mechanisms, indirectly linking exposure to interpersonal violence to recurrent headache. We found no substantial moderating effect of family cohesion or sex. Conclusions Loneliness and psychological distress seem to play crucial roles in the relationship between exposure to interpersonal violence and recurrent headache. To facilitate coping and recovery, it may be helpful to account for these factors in preventive and clinical interventions. Trauma-informed, social relationship-based interventions may represent a major opportunity to alter trajectories of recurrent headache.
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Affiliation(s)
- Synne Oien Stensland
- Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, University of Oslo, P,B, 181, Nydalen 0409 Oslo, Norway.
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Lundervold AJ, Breivik K, Posserud MB, Stormark KM, Hysing M. Symptoms of depression as reported by Norwegian adolescents on the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire. Front Psychol 2013; 4:613. [PMID: 24062708 PMCID: PMC3769622 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2013.00613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated sex-differences in reports of depressive symptoms on a Norwegian translation of the short version of the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (SMFQ). The sample comprised 9702 Norwegian adolescents (born 1993-1995, 54.9% girls), mainly attending highschool. A set of statistical analyses were run to investigate the dimensionality of the SMFQ. Girls scored significantly higher than boys on the SMFQ and used the most severe response-category far more frequently. Overall, the statistical analyses supported the essential unidimensionality of SMFQ. However, the items with the highest loadings according to the bifactor analysis, reflecting problems related to tiredness, restlessness and concentration difficulties, indicated that some of the symptoms may both be independent of and part of the symptomatology of depression. Measurement invariance analysis showed that girls scored slightly higher on some items when taking the latent variable into account; girls had a lower threshold for reporting mood problems and problems related to tiredness than boys, who showed a marginally lower threshold for reporting that no-one loved them. However, the effect on the total SMFQ score was marginal, supporting the use of the Norwegian translation of SMFQ as a continuous variable in further studies of adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astri J Lundervold
- Department of Biological and Medical Psychology, University of Bergen Bergen, Norway ; Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, Uni Health, Uni Research Bergen, Norway ; K. G. Jebsen Center for Research on Neuropsychiatric Disorders, University of Bergen Bergen, Norway
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Correction: Differences between children and adolescents who commit suicide and their peers: A psychological autopsy of suicide victims compared to accident victims and a community sample. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2013; 7:18. [PMID: 23773762 PMCID: PMC3684517 DOI: 10.1186/1753-2000-7-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Zakharov S, Navratil T, Pelclova D. Non‐Fatal Suicidal Self‐Poisonings in Children and Adolescents over a 5‐Year Period (2007–2011). Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2013; 112:425-30. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sergey Zakharov
- Toxicological Information Center, Department of Occupational Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Navratil
- Department of Biophysical Chemistry J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of AS CR, v.v.i Prague Czech Republic
| | - Daniela Pelclova
- Toxicological Information Center, Department of Occupational Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital Prague Czech Republic
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Freuchen A, Kjelsberg E, Grøholt B. Suicide or accident? A psychological autopsy study of suicide in youths under the age of 16 compared to deaths labeled as accidents. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2012; 6:30. [PMID: 22971572 PMCID: PMC3526543 DOI: 10.1186/1753-2000-6-30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2012] [Accepted: 09/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the present paper, we describe suicide in youths under 16 years of age and compare their risk factors for suicide to those of older adolescents as described in the literature. Furthermore, we evaluate the possible mislabeling of suicides as accidents, and vice versa. METHOD We used the data from a nationwide psychological autopsy of youths 15 years and younger who had committed suicide or died in accidents in Norway from 1993 to 2004 (n = 84). We additionally constructed a suicide index to distinguish between the two causes of death. RESULTS The young suicide victims presented, with little gender difference, fewer obvious risk factors and less suicide intent than commonly described for older adolescents. The suicide index distinguished quite well between suicides and accidents, with few cases indicating a possible mislabeling, although some suicide cases could have been labeled as uncertain. CONCLUSION In line with previous research, suicides in 11-15-year-olds have many similarities to suicides in older adolescents in terms of external circumstances, but they present less apparent warning signs. In our total sample of 84 deaths, there were few indications of incorrect labeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Freuchen
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, N-0316, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ellen Kjelsberg
- Centre for Forensic Psychiatry, Oslo University Hospital, N-0407, Oslo, Norway
| | - Berit Grøholt
- Institute of clinical medicine, Faculty of medicine, University of Oslo, N-0361, Oslo, Norway
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