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Adolescent suicide attempts: outcomes at follow-up
A Spirito1, B Plummer, M Gispert
1Rhode Island Hospital/Brown University Program in Medicine, Providence.
The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Many adolescents struggle with mental health after a suicide attempt, showing high dropout rates for psychotherapy and frequent repeat attempts within three months. This highlights critical gaps in post-attempt care and support systems.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Emergency Medicine
- Mental Health Services Research
Background:
- Suicide attempts among adolescents represent a significant public health concern.
- Effective post-attempt care is crucial for preventing recurrent suicidal behavior.
- Current follow-up strategies for adolescent suicide attempters require evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the outcomes of adolescents following a suicide attempt.
- To investigate treatment adherence and rates of repeat suicide attempts.
- To inform improved disposition planning and clinical care for this population.
Main Methods:
- Prospective follow-up study of adolescents presenting after a suicide attempt.
- Data collection at one and three months post-attempt.
- Tracking of psychotherapy engagement and subsequent suicide attempts.
Main Results:
- Substantial dropout rates were observed for psychotherapy interventions.
- A high incidence of repeated suicide attempts was documented by three months.
- Significant challenges exist in maintaining continuity of care.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents require more robust and sustained support following suicide attempts.
- Current follow-up protocols may be insufficient in preventing repeat attempts.
- Enhanced strategies for disposition planning and ongoing care are urgently needed.