Research on suicide risk and prevention. Covers screening and skills programs, youth emergency visits, and neighborhood risk factors.
Researchers used machine learning techniques on a statewide database of handgun transactions to forecast firearm suicide risk. The study found a significant association between handgun sales and subsequent firearm suicides.
A UC San Diego study reveals six overarching themes contributing to physician job stress and suicide, including physical health deterioration and financial stress. The research calls for short-term solutions like improved access to primary care and long-term changes to address workplace culture and self-care.
A new IU screening tool, Convergent Functional Information for Suicidality (CFI-S), has been validated to predict 80-90% of future suicidality. The tool identifies top risk factors such as feeling useless or unneeded, history of suicidality, and social isolation.
A new study found that children with immune-mediated inflammatory disease have a significantly higher risk of premature death, particularly from cancer and suicide. The research, which analyzed data from over 12,000 patients, highlights the need for early cancer screening and mental health support in pediatric care.
Research published by the American Psychological Association found that states with hate crime laws protecting LGBTQ populations have lower rates of suicide attempts among both sexual and gender minority students, as well as heterosexual students. Overall, suicide attempt rates decreased by 16% in those states.
A new England-wide study found a strong association between intimate partner violence and self-harm and suicidality in both men and women, regardless of age. The study used data from over 7,000 adults in England and found that people who experienced IPV had higher rates of self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
A new analysis published in JAMA Psychiatry shows that brief suicide prevention interventions delivered in healthcare settings drastically underreport the strategies needed for successful implementation. On average, about 85% of these strategies were missing from published reports.
Researchers found that states implementing Medicaid expansion saw a slower increase in suicide rates compared to those that didn't expand access. The study estimated that 1,818 suicides were averted between 2014 and 2018, with improved mental health care playing a crucial role.
A new study found that 64% of adults who had contact with the child welfare system as children achieve excellent mental health, highlighting resilience and factors associated with flourishing. Chronic pain, major depression, and social isolation hinder optimal mental health.
Despite widespread concern, most research on Covid-19 and its impact on mental health found no significant increase in suicide rates globally. In low- and middle-income countries, some studies even reported a decrease in rates of suicide and self-harm following the pandemic.
Researchers analyzed data from 599 patients with premenstrual dysphoric disorder and found that 34% have attempted suicide, with high rates of suicidal ideation, planning, and self-injury among women. The study highlights the need for accurate diagnosis and screening of suicidal ideation in patients with PMDD.
A UC Davis Health study found that patients on stable but higher-dose opioid therapy who had their doses tapered by at least 15% had significantly higher rates of overdose and mental health crisis in the second year after tapering compared to their pre-tapering period. The risks were greatest in patients with the highest baseline doses.
A new study finds that women using hormonal contraceptives have lower rates of attempted suicides compared to those who do not use them. The research, published by the European Psychiatric Association, analyzed data from over 587,000 Finnish women and found a significant reduction in suicide attempts among hormonal contraceptive users.
A new study finds that transgender adolescents are at a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts compared to their cisgender peers. The research suggests that targeted interventions, such as suicide prevention programs and gender-affirming care, can help reduce the burden of suicidality among this group.
The number of US children suspected to have attempted suicide by poisoning increased by 26.7% between 2015 and 2020, according to researchers at the University of Virginia Health System. The majority of these cases involved girls, and the age group with the largest increase was children aged 10-12.
A large retrospective study examines the impact of pandemic-related school closures on children's mental health, finding that adolescent females were disproportionately affected. The study reveals a substantial rise in hospitalizations for suicide, psychosis, and eating disorders after statewide school closure orders.
A global analysis of firearm suicide data found that deaths from self-inflicted shootings decreased worldwide between 1990 and 2019. However, an increase in firearm suicides was observed in 31 countries, particularly in developing nations, suggesting a need for targeted public health efforts to reduce these deaths.
Adolescents with access to firearms have a 1.5 times higher odds of prior suicide attempt and current suicidal ideation, according to the study. Over 40% of adolescents presenting to the ED had moderate to severe depressive symptoms and access to a gun.
The COVID-19 pandemic saw a devastating rise in adolescent mental health crises, with 60% of admitted patients exhibiting suicidal ideation or attempting suicide. Mental health admissions increased for depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and substance-related disorders, particularly among girls.
A new observational study from Vanderbilt University Medical Center compares an artificial intelligence algorithm with face-to-face screening for estimating suicide risk. The ensemble learning method produced nearly always better predictions across the board compared to C-SSRS or VSAIL alone.
A recent study published in Journal of the American Pharmacists Association found that pharmacists are at a higher risk of suicide compared to the general population, with a rate of 20 per 100,000 pharmacists versus 12 per 100,000 in the general population.
Researchers say expanded inquiries can save lives by identifying vulnerable individuals who may not be reporting suicidal ideation. Tailoring assessments to individual situations can help medical professionals uncover hidden risks and prevent tragedies.
Researchers investigated patterns of reported suicidal thoughts, planning, and behavior among firearm owners compared to non-owners. The study found a significant association between gun ownership and increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
A recent study found significant racial and ethnic disparities in excess deaths from external causes, including homicide, suicide, and transportation accidents. The study estimated these disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address health inequities.
Researchers developed a novel gene expression approach to identify potential blood biomarkers associated with suicide in major depressive disorder. The study analyzed data from non-preserved blood samples and found significant differences in gene expression changes linked to stress response, immune dysregulation, and telomere maintenance.
Researchers at the University of South Florida conducted a comprehensive review of data on 25,000 Canadians and found that long-term well-being is a realistic goal for some patients with mental illnesses. The study revealed that symptoms only correlate modestly with well-being, and that earlier treatment may improve outcomes.
The May issues of American Psychiatric Association journals explore the cognitive impacts of long-term cannabis use, the intersection of climate change and mental health, and tools to address children's mental health. The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services feature research reports on these topics.
A Rutgers study found that nontraditional 9/11 emergency workers are more than five times as likely to have considered suicide, with 12.5% expressing suicidal ideation compared to 2.2% of traditional first responders. Factors contributing to this disparity include inadequate training and financial hardship.
A study of 9.5 million California women found that acquiring a handgun by a cohabitant sharply increased the risk of suicide among women living in handgun-free homes. Women who lived in households without handgun owners had a significantly lower rate of suicidal thoughts and behaviors compared to those with cohabitants owning firearms.
A new study found that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) significantly reduced the risk of suicide among patients with depression in the year following hospitalization. The study, which analyzed data from over 67,000 patients, showed a 50% lower risk of suicide among those who received ECT compared to those who did not.
A recent study by Boston Children's Hospital found a significant increase in adolescent suicide rates during the pandemic. The analysis of data from 2015 to 2020 revealed a sharp rise in suicides among youth aged 10-19, with 14 states experiencing particularly high numbers.
Firearm-related deaths have surpassed car accidents as the leading cause of death among children under 19, with a widening racial gap. Secure gun storage counseling and hospital-based violence intervention programs show promise for prevention and reduction of all three categories of gun violence.
Adults exposed to chronic parental domestic violence have higher rates of depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse, but many thrive despite their early adversity. Social support plays a crucial role in maintaining good mental health.
A survey study found increased risk factors and worse outcomes among transgender and gender-questioning high school students compared to their cisgender peers. The study highlights the need for targeted support and interventions to address these health disparities.
Research from Trinity College Dublin suggests that cumulative childhood trauma is a key indicator of suicide ideation among university students. The study found that 35.2% of participants reported adverse childhood experiences, and serious levels of suicidal thoughts were common.
A new nationally representative study found that two in five adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were in excellent mental health. Being married, physically active, free from chronic pain, and having no history of depression or anxiety were associated with complete mental well-being.
A new study reveals that firearm retailers and law enforcement agencies in Colorado and Washington support providing temporary, voluntary firearm storage options. The concept aims to increase safety by limiting access to firearms during times of crisis, such as suicidal thoughts or Alzheimer's disease. However, concerns about civil lia...
A study of 470,000 rural US veterans found that receiving video-enabled tablets during the COVID-19 pandemic led to increased use of mental health care via video and psychotherapy visits. The tablets also reduced suicide-related behavior and emergency department visits among this population.
A study of 470,000 rural US veterans found that receiving a video-enabled tablet during the COVID-19 pandemic led to increased use of virtual mental health care services. This resulted in reduced emergency department visits and suicide-related behavior, highlighting the benefits of telehealth in rural areas.
A recent study examined changes in suicide rates in Japan from 2009 to 2021, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings indicate a significant increase in suicides during this period, particularly among young people and those with mental health conditions.
A study published in International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that antidepressants were associated with a lower risk of suicide among residents aged 75+, who had a significantly increased risk if taking sleep medication or having a history of self-harm. The research highlights the need for early recognition and quality care ...
A survey of nearly 30,000 Korean high school students found a strong association between non-academic internet usage and mental health issues such as stress and suicidal ideation. Students who spent more time online reported better health, reduced stress, and fewer feelings of sadness and suicidal thoughts.
A survey study found that firearm ownership is prevalent among individuals with major depressive symptoms, suggesting a need for focused interventions to mitigate suicidal behavior. The study highlights the importance of addressing firearm access and use in individuals with mental health conditions.
A recent study found that age-adjusted suicide rates among American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) veterans receiving care in the VHA system increased by nearly 150% over two decades. The youngest age group, aged 18-39 years, had the highest suicide rate of 66.0 per 100,000 person-years.
A Rutgers study found that individuals who die by suicide with a firearm are more likely to disclose suicidal thoughts to others but less likely to seek mental health treatment. Approximately 90% of firearm-related suicides result in death, compared to less than 5% for other methods.
A dramatic increase in suicidal ingestions was reported among preadolescent children over the past two decades. The analysis of national poison data showed a significant rise in this trend, highlighting the need for increased awareness and prevention strategies.
A systematic review found that mobile apps based on ecological momentary intervention (EMI) may be a useful tool for managing patients at risk of suicide. EMI interventions can provide 'low-cost, 24/7 support' and are particularly promising for adolescents and young adults who are comfortable with digital technologies.
A study published in Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior reveals subgroups of firearm owners in the United States who can be trusted to discuss safe storage. The study found that certain groups, such as those owning multiple firearms or shotguns and rifles, may require more individualized conversations about safe storage.
A Rutgers study identifies reliable sources for firearm safety information among subgroups of gun owners. Family members and law enforcement are consistently ranked as credible, while celebrities and NRA representatives are less trusted.
A recent study found that only 56.9% of transgender respondents felt treated equally in routine appointments, while 48.2% reported their primary care doctor was supportive of gender-affirming care needs. The researchers recommend incorporating transgender healthcare into medical school curricula to improve care for transgender patients.
A new study finds that conversion therapy has significant economic costs and psychological harms for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning youths in the US. The therapy is also associated with increased rates of depression, substance abuse, and suicide attempts among this population.
The March issues of American Psychiatric Association journals focus on the genomics of psychopathology, exploring its relationship with various mental illnesses. Research highlights unique genetic patterns among individuals who die by suicide using violent means.
A study of 104 transgender and nonbinary youths found that gender-affirming care reduces depression and suicidal thoughts over 12 months. The treatment significantly improved mental health outcomes in the participants.
Researchers found that 6.7% of jail detainees threatened SSH in the past three months, and 4.5% attempted SSH in the past year. The study suggests that jails should develop an empirically driven suicidal risk assessment to improve institutional safety and prevent suicide.
Research suggests stress plays a bidirectional role in AFib, both increasing episodes and contributing to mental health issues. Stress reduction strategies, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction and anxiolytic therapy, may improve AFib symptoms and quality of life.
USF researchers analyzed 5,017 suicide victims' cases from 2019, finding that 69% of violent deaths in Florida were caused by suicide. The study highlights the critical need to study suicides among underrepresented youth, especially younger Black males.
A new Rutgers study found that anti-Black and anti-LGBTQ policies in US states are associated with increased suicide risk among young Black sexual minority men. The study highlights the need for policy reform to reduce suicide risk among this population.
Firearm deaths have overtaken car crashes as the leading cause of premature US trauma deaths, with firearm suicides highest in older white men and firearm homicides highest in young black men. Firearm-related deaths increased steadily over the past decade, accounting for 12.6 million years of potential life lost between 2009 and 2018.
A UTSA-led study found that post-9/11 military veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) are at higher risk of chronic disease, mortality, and mental health issues compared to the general population. The study estimates excess deaths among a large cohort of veterans and highlights the need for better methods of intervening.
Research reveals that people who have had COVID-19 are more likely to experience mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, within a year after recovery from the virus. The study found that COVID-19 survivors were 60% more likely to suffer from mental health problems than those who were not infe...