An overview of traumatic brain injury and suicide

There is concerning evidence that people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) may be at increased risk for suicide. This paper aims to provide an overview of traumatic brain injury and suicide in order to enhance the ability of professionals to recognize and manage suicidality in patients with TBI.

First, the association between TBI and suicide is reviewed. Proposed psychological, psychosocial and neuropathological factors are included in the discussion. Next, identifiable risk factors for suicide in TBI are presented. Suicide assessment tools are then discussed. Assessment is emphasized as the mainstay of suicide prevention and clinicians are encouraged to be vigilant for potential suicidality in their patients with TBI. Finally, biopsychosocial interventions for suicidality are reviewed.

This paper concludes that increasing awareness of depression and suicide risk assessment in the TBI population should be aimed towards staff involved in neuro-rehabilation as well as other professionals who are involved in the care of patients with TBI, because psychoeducation of those most likely to come in contact with at-risk individuals have been shown to increase identification of suicidal patients, lowering suicide rates.