Research on suicide risk and prevention. Covers screening and skills programs, youth emergency visits, and neighborhood risk factors.
The Appalachian Region's mortality rate from diseases of despair decreased by 4% between 2021 and 2022, while remaining virtually unchanged outside of Appalachia. However, the region still experiences higher rates of mortality from these diseases across all age groups, particularly among those in their prime working years.
A new study found that GLP1 receptor agonists reduce the risk of suicidal ideation or attempts in adolescents with obesity. The treatment, compared to lifestyle intervention, showed a favorable psychiatric safety profile and potential avenues for future research.
Research identifies no elevated risk of suicide among professional athletes overall, but retirement from athletic careers can be a stressful experience. Athletes may develop effective coping skills and social connections through sports that foster resilience and mastery.
A recent Canadian study reveals that transgender populations in Canada experience a significantly higher prevalence of serious mental disorders and suicidality compared to cisgender peers. The study, published in JAMA, is based on data from nearly 10,000 Canadians aged 15 or older.
A cross-sectional study reveals a significant risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among autistic transgender and gender-nonconforming US college students. The study emphasizes the importance of providing targeted support to address this issue.
A systematic review found that FDA-issued warnings about antidepressant use among youth led to a decline in pediatric mental health care and an increase in suicides. The study suggests that these warnings, intended to encourage physician vigilance, had unintended consequences.
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that children with high or severe levels of sleep disturbance are more than twice as likely to develop suicidal thoughts and behaviors during the next two years. Frequent nightmares were particularly associated with an increased risk.
This study reveals a higher prevalence of mental disorders and suicidal behavior among transgender and gender-diverse individuals. The findings align with previous research, indicating significantly higher rates of mental health-related health service use among this group.
A new Kaiser Permanente study found that integrating suicide care into routine primary care visits reduced the rate of suicide attempts by 25% within 90 days. The integrated care model also led to a significant increase in safety planning and assessments for depression, alcohol, and drug use.
According to a survey of parents of children hospitalized for suicidal ideation or attempt, caregivers are receptive to firearm safe storage counseling and free firearm locks. However, 19% of firearm-owning families reported not storing their firearms securely.
Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics found a four-fold increase in opioid poisoning cases among children under 2 years old, with fentanyl being the leading cause. Non-Hispanic Black children were particularly affected, experiencing an 11-fold increase in overdose cases between 2019 and 2023.
A study presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics conference found that Colorado caregivers with children in the home significantly underestimated the risk of firearm-related suicide. The research also highlighted a lack of awareness about preventing suicide, particularly among caregivers living in households with firearms.
A third of living former professional football players reported perceived chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) associated with an increased prevalence of suicidality. Men with CTE had cognitive impairment and more health problems compared to those without CTE, highlighting a novel risk factor for suicidality.
A new study of nearly 2,000 former NFL players shows that about one-third believe they have chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a condition linked to repeated head trauma. Players who believed they had CTE reported more cognitive problems and higher rates of treatable conditions such as depression and low testosterone.
A new study led by Case Western Reserve University finds a significant increase in suicidality among Black youth on Chicago's South Side, attributing it to factors such as bullying, community violence, and neglectful parenting. The study also identifies authoritarian parenting as a protective factor against suicidality.
Exposure to negative news media about LGBTQ+ topics increases suicidal ideation intensity in the hours following, according to a longitudinal study. The findings have implications for research and intervention in sociopolitical and geographic contexts.
A study from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that nearly 80% of transgender and gender diverse youth screened positive for suicide risk, with one out of four having active suicidal thoughts. The study highlights the importance of universal suicide screening for all youth, regardless of reason for seeking care.
A cohort study found no association between GLP-1 receptor agonist use and increased risk of suicide death or related disorders in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study included mostly patients with type 2 diabetes.
A post hoc analysis found semaglutide treatment did not increase the risk of developing depression or suicidal ideation and was associated with a small reduction in depressive symptoms. Monitoring for mental health concerns is essential for individuals with obesity to receive proper support and care.
A large-scale study in Sweden and Denmark found no clear link between the use of GLP-1 analogues and an increased risk of suicide or self-harm. The research analyzed data from over 300,000 adults treated with the medication, concluding that it is reassuring to see no apparent increase in suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
A study from University of Gothenburg links work-related pain to mental illness among construction workers. Managers' empathetic or neglectful attitudes are highlighted as key factors in mental health.
A study of 8,000 community-dwelling adults reveals that loneliness in later life is strongly associated with death ideation, but engaging in social activities, particularly religious services, can protect against this. The research highlights the critical issue of social disconnection and its link to a 'wish to die' among older adults.
An analysis of evidence from 20 countries found that suicide rates among male doctors decreased over time, while female physicians remained significantly more likely to die by suicide. The study highlights the ongoing need for research and prevention efforts among doctors, particularly women.
A cohort study found elevated depression and anxiety levels in unvaccinated people with COVID-19 diagnosis compared to before or without the virus. Vaccination was associated with lower incidence of mental illnesses after hospitalization for COVID-19.
A disproportionality analysis of World Health Organization data revealed a signal of semaglutide-associated suicidal ideation, particularly among patients with co-reported antidepressant use. This finding warrants urgent clarification and highlights the need for further research on the safety profile of semaglutide.
The study found a significant reduction in firearm homicide mortality after the implementation of Florida's red flag law, with an 11% rate decrease. However, no differences were observed in nonfirearm homicide rates, suicide rates, or nonfirearm suicide rates.
A study of over 15,000 youth with self-inflicted injury treated in Emergency Departments found that nearly half of ED visits were for mental health issues. The researchers propose brief interventions to screen for suicide risk, ensure safety planning, and connect patients to follow-up care.
A recent study reviewed current research and methods used to support Australian military veterans' psychological, physical, and social well-being, highlighting the need for holistic and tailored programs. The researchers emphasize the importance of addressing social, organizational, and environmental factors alongside mental health con...
A nationwide children's hospital implemented an automated Caring Contacts texting system to provide ongoing care and support to youth at risk for suicide. The intervention helped patients feel hopeful and supported, with 83% reporting feeling moderately to very hopeful and 88% feeling moderately to very supported.
The latest issues of American Psychiatric Association journals feature new research on PTSD, phobias, and psychiatric vulnerabilities. A special issue on eating disorders is also highlighted in the August issue of Psychiatric Services.
A recent study has found a notable increase in suicidal deaths among Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) young adults over the past two decades. The study reveals that male AAPI youth experienced a sharp rise in suicidal rates starting in 2008, with a significant peak in 2019.
A new analysis found that people hospitalized for heart disease, stroke, or cardiovascular diseases are 83% more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or other psychiatric conditions within the first year after hospitalization. Early mental health screening and intervention are crucial for patients and their loved ones.
New research from the CU Center for Combat Medicine and Battlefield Research found a promising pathway to reducing gun-carrying among youths with recent suicidal ideation or plans. Military-connected youth with past-year suicidal ideations or suicide plans exhibited lower rates of handgun carrying compared to their civilian peers.
Researchers developed a computer model to examine the dynamics underlying suicide contagion after the suicides of Robin Williams in 2014 and Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain in 2018. The findings provide a framework for quantifying suicidal contagion, allowing for better understanding, prevention, and containment of its spread.
The study found a disproportionate increase in female suicide rates relative to male preteens between 2001 and 2022. Suicide was the 5th leading cause of death among both males and females during this period.
A study of 40,000 suicides among youth aged 10-24 found that three out of five cases lacked a prior mental health diagnosis. The researchers emphasize the need for equitable access to mental health screening, diagnosis, and treatment for all youth.
A cross-sectional study found that 60% of youth suicide decedents lacked a preceding mental health diagnosis, with racial and ethnic minorities having lower odds of diagnosis. The study highlights the need for equitable mental health identification and lethal means counseling to prevent youth suicide.
Rates of preteen suicide (ages 8-12) have increased by approximately 8% annually since 2008, with notable increases among female and minority preteens. The study emphasizes the importance of implementing culturally responsive prevention efforts, including suicide risk screening and lethal means safety counseling.
A new study reveals that age-adjusted suicide rates decreased for White individuals in the US but increased for Asian American or Pacific Islander youths during the same timeframe, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to support this growing population
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that mental health apps can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and suicidality in individuals waiting for their initial psychiatric appointment. The study, which involved over 2,000 patients, showed improvement in all groups, regardless of the app used.
A Rutgers Health study found that Black LGB adolescents experienced the highest rising rates of suicidal ideation and bullying in NYC youth. Compared to their heterosexual peers, these trends are at least double, with bullying linked to increased suicidal thoughts and attempts among all adolescents.
A new study highlights the importance of friendships in supporting young people who self-harm, while also considering the potential negative impact on friends' own mental wellbeing. The review recommends that adults should extend support to young people who disclose a friend's self-harming behavior.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics highlights the critical role of family support in maintaining the mental health of transgender youth following gender identity milestones. Without a supportive family environment, these young individuals are at a higher risk of attempting suicide or running away from home.
Research reveals that residents of America's wealthiest communities face higher economic losses from natural disasters and exposure to air pollution, despite having more assets. In contrast, low-income municipalities have higher suicide rates, homicide rates, and firearm fatalities, but lower access to health services.
A study published in the Journal of School Violence found that over 9-12% of 13-17 year olds in the US engaged in digital self-harm between 2019 and 2021. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to address this growing issue.
Researchers discovered that state firearm access laws significantly reduced firearm suicides among young adults. Implementing permit to purchase laws was associated with a 39% decrease in firearm suicides and a 14% decrease in overall suicide rates among this age group.
Scientists at the University of Warwick have investigated a range of contributing risk factors for suicide in a large-scale study. The study identified biological and behavioral predictors, including elevated white blood cells, neuroticism, childhood experiences, and reduced grey matter in the brain.
A recent study investigates maternal suicide mortality during the perinatal period, revealing complex factors and opportunities for further research. The findings underscore the importance of evidence-based interventions targeting mental health, substance use, and intimate partner problems to prevent maternal suicide and enhance matern...
A recent statistical analysis published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine reveals a significant association between more restrictive alcohol policy environments and lower homicide rates. The study suggests that adopting stricter policies could lead to a reduction in approximately 1200 homicides annually.
Patients with anorexia nervosa have a 4.5-times higher risk of dying compared to the general population, with psychiatric conditions doubling this risk. The presence of these conditions is also associated with a 1.9-fold higher risk of 10-year mortality in individuals diagnosed at age 6–25 years.
A study by the University of Toronto found that 43% of Canadians with a history of bipolar disorder were symptom-free and 23.5% had achieved complete mental health. Factors contributing to psychological flourishing included having a trusted confidant, using spirituality as coping mechanisms, and absence of disabling chronic pain.
A new study finds that adolescents with higher levels of social anxiety symptoms are more likely to report increased suicidal thoughts and depressive symptoms two years later. Early intervention for social anxiety may be crucial in preventing these mental health issues.
A new trial of a suicide prevention intervention for autistic adults found that almost two-thirds of participants found the adapted safety plans useful. The study, funded by the National Institute of Health Research, suggests that personalized interventions can reduce self-harm and suicidal behaviors in autistic individuals.
The number of calls to US poison centers has increased sharply, with a 233.9% rise in intentional exposures among adults. The severity of unintentional exposures also increased, with 37.4% more cases resulting in severe harm and 65.3% more deaths.
A Rutgers University study found that many firearm owners lack knowledge about proper cable lock installation, with only 98.3% correctly identifying correct installation on a rifle. The study suggests that education and awareness are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of cable locks in securing firearms.
A study by researchers at the University of Arizona found that veterans paired with service dogs for three months had significantly lower self-reported PTSD symptom severity, anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. They also experienced a 66% lower odds of receiving a PTSD diagnosis.
A new study by OHSU and Lines for Life finds that a crisis intervention program using social media to monitor youth can deter suicidal behavior. The Safe Social Spaces program has avoided 163 instances of self-harm through supportive dialogue with over 3,000 young people.
A study found that adolescents who slept less than 4 hours a night were two times more likely to attempt suicide, while improved sleep duration could potentially lower suicide risk among teens. Sleep moderates the association between bullying and suicide in U.S. teenagers.
A 15-year analysis of national data on suicides and homicides shows that nocturnal wakefulness significantly increases the risk for both. Disrupted sleep impairs rational thought and drives impulsive behaviors in vulnerable individuals.
York University Professor Gordon Flett highlights the importance of mattering in preventing youth suicide, linking it to feelings of being seen and heard. He argues that excessive social media use can exacerbate anti-mattering feelings, which are a key risk factor for youth suicidal ideation.