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AI tool instantly assesses self-harm risk

A new assessment tool developed by researchers at Northwestern University predicts suicidal thoughts and behaviors with an average accuracy of 92%. The tool uses a simple picture-ranking task along with contextual variables to identify individuals at risk of self-harm.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Mental Health·DateMay 9, 2024

Many children with symptoms of brain injuries and concussions are missing out on vital checks, national US study finds

A national US study found that nearly a quarter of children with symptoms of brain injuries or concussions were not checked for the condition. Younger children were more likely to be overlooked. Routine checks can help ensure these children receive necessary care and support their mental and social well-being.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalBrain Injury·TypeSurvey·DateApr 26, 2024

Trends in deaths of despair by race and ethnicity

Midlife mortality rates for deaths of despair, including suicide, overdose, and liver disease, vary by race and ethnicity, with higher rates among Black and American Indian/Alaska Native populations. Early mortality from drug- and alcohol-related causes contributes to these disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 10, 2024

Study: Suicides among college athletes doubled in 20 years

A study found that the number of U.S. collegiate athletes who died by suicide doubled between 2002 and 2022, accounting for a greater portion of total deaths. Athletes' mental health issues were attributed to pressures such as school expectations, performance demands, and social media scrutiny.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2024

Johns Hopkins Children’s Center study shows negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic on youth minority mental health

A recent Johns Hopkins Children's Center study reveals a significant negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth minority mental health. The research found increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts among adolescents in racial and ethnic minorities, with Black females showing a 90.2% increase in suicidal thoughts.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateMar 26, 2024

Young Black men are dying by suicide at alarming rates

A new study from the University of Georgia reveals that young Black men are experiencing suicidal thoughts at alarming rates, with one in three rural Black men reporting ideation or death thoughts. Childhood adversity and racism are major contributing factors, leading to feelings of mistrust and isolation.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology·DateMar 26, 2024

New research in April: colorectal cancer, kidney health, OR supply costs, and more

Research highlights new findings on social vulnerability and survivorship after colorectal cancer resection, as well as disparities in kidney recovery among Black donors. Additionally, studies reveal cost savings from implementing quality interventions and explore eligibility for transplants in obese patients with end-stage renal disease.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 15, 2024

Study identifies molecular alterations in brain tissue and blood of people who committed suicide

Researchers analyzed molecular data from brain tissue and blood of individuals who committed suicide, identifying risk markers for novel therapeutic targets. The study found alterations in the prefrontal cortex and inhibitory neurotransmitters, highlighting potential new approaches for preventing suicidal behavior.

Permitless open carry laws may lead to more firearm-related suicides

A study published by the American College of Surgeons found that permitless open carry laws in states without such restrictions had a significantly higher rate of firearm-related deaths and total suicides. The researchers suggested that the ease of access to firearms under these laws may be responsible for the increase in suicide rates.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 11, 2024

Increases in suicide rate linked to ‘shocks’ in the economy

A study by the University of Southampton found a strong connection between daily suicides, people's expectations formed by professional economic forecasts, and subsequent economic performance. Negative economic shocks can lead to feelings of lack of identity and purpose among vulnerable populations, increasing the risk of suicide.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 11, 2024

Who military service members see as credible to discuss secure firearm storage for suicide prevention

A Rutgers Health study found that military service members view law enforcement officers, military service members, and veterans as the most credible sources to discuss secure firearm storage for suicide prevention. The study suggests that leveraging these sources can help increase secure storage among this population.

SourceRutgers University·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2024

How ketamine acts fast and slow

Researchers discovered that ketamine's sustained effects involve increasing immature cells' activity, while rapid effects rely on newborn neurons firing more rapidly. This breakthrough opens doors to developing new antidepressant treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2024

Women in healthcare face significantly higher burnout rates compared to their male colleagues

A new study finds women in healthcare occupations endure significantly more stress and burnout compared to their male counterparts. Job satisfaction and better work-life balance can mitigate this stress. The analysis also highlights the need for healthcare employers and policymakers to develop solutions to prevent burnout.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalGlobal Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health·DateFeb 22, 2024

Increased access to opioids, shrinking economic safety net boost U.S. suicide rates

A new University of Colorado Boulder study suggests that increased access to potentially lethal prescription opioids has made it easier for women to end their lives. The study also found that a shrinking federal safety net has contributed to rising suicide rates during tough economic times, particularly among all adults.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 15, 2024

Ketamine’s promise for severe depression grows, but major questions remain

New findings from a study on ketamine's efficacy in treating severe depression reveal that 52% of participants achieved remission after just three infusions. The study also found that half of those who had thought often of suicide before receiving ketamine experienced a dramatic drop in suicidal impulses.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2024

BU & Howard study finds neighborhood socioeconomic status may play an important role in suicides

Researchers found that attempted suicide risk increases as individuals move up the economic ladder in prosperous neighborhoods, highlighting the need for universal suicide screening and prevention strategies. The study's findings call for more research on risk and protective factors at community and societal levels.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2024

How ‘deaths of despair’ differ by race and ethnicity

White Americans are more likely to experience 'deaths of despair,' despite lower levels of severe psychological distress, according to a new study. The study suggests that whites are vulnerable to the damaging effects of psychological distress, which can lead to other health issues like obesity and cardiovascular disease.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

Persons diagnosed with PCOS face 8-fold increase in suicide risk

A study of 18,000 women found those diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were 8 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to control group. This increased risk is attributed to higher likelihood of psychiatric conditions such as depressive disorders and anxiety disorders associated with PCOS. Researchers emphasize the ne...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateFeb 5, 2024

High school students who report using alcohol, cannabis or nicotine at higher risk for suicidal thoughts and other mental health disorders

A recent study found that high school students who use substances are more likely to experience suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric symptoms. The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, highlights the need for comprehensive screening, prevention, and intervention efforts to address mental health needs.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 29, 2024

People with suicidal thoughts help each other through tough times

Researchers found that people with suicidal thoughts use closed peer groups on Danish social media to navigate the healthcare system and receive emotional support. These online communities provide a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and connect with others who understand their experiences.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalMental Health & Prevention·TypeCase study·DateJan 24, 2024

Perinatal depression and risk of suicidal behavior

Women with perinatal depression are at a heightened risk of suicidal behavior, particularly in the first year after diagnosis, with persistent elevations throughout 18 years of follow-up. The study emphasizes the need for vigilant clinical monitoring to support this vulnerable group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 9, 2024

Menstrual cycles affect day-to-day suicide risk, UIC researchers find

A new study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that female patients with a history of suicidality experience increased suicidal ideation and planning during the premenstrual phase, offering new guidance for clinicians. The study identified individual differences in how the menstrual cycle affects symptoms and suicidality.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateDec 14, 2023

Social Policy Report Q&A: Preventing adolescent suicide: recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, program developers, and researchers

A new report recommends a layered approach to prevent adolescent suicide by focusing on pediatrician offices, schools, and neighborhoods. Universal screenings, safe storage programs, and affirming LGBTQ+ policies can help create protective environments.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalSocial Policy Report·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 6, 2023

December issues of APA journals cover childhood resilience and adult outcomes, genetics and postpartum depression, increasing rates of suicide among Black women, and more

The December issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services explore postpartum depression, responses to stress in adulthood, and adversity in children. APA highlights increased rates of suicide among Black women, shedding light on childhood resilience and genetics.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateDec 4, 2023

Alarming rates of suicidal ideation among older transgender adults revealed on Transgender Day of Remembrance

A recent study reveals that over one-quarter of older transgender adults have seriously contemplated ending their lives, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support and interventions. The study found that experiencing challenges in areas such as workplace issues and personal safety significantly increased the odds of contemplatin...

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAging & Mental Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2023