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Suicidality, depression, and substance abuse in adolescence
1Department of Maternal and Child Health, Harvard School of Public Health, MA 02115.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Major depression and substance abuse significantly increase suicide risk in college students. These conditions, especially substance abuse in men, heighten concerns for suicidal ideation and attempts.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Adolescent Health
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts are significant concerns in adolescent populations.
- Understanding risk factors is crucial for early intervention and prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, major depression, and substance abuse in college students aged 16-19.
- To identify independent and interactive risk factors for suicidal ideation and attempts within this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 424 apparently healthy college students.
- Assessment of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, major depression, and substance abuse through [specific assessment tools not detailed in abstract].
Main Results:
- Major depression and substance abuse were identified as independent and interactive risk factors for both suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.
- Substance abuse demonstrated a particularly adverse impact on suicide risk among male students.
- A prolonged desire to be dead was a more specific predictor of suicide attempts than suicidal thoughts alone.
Conclusions:
- Suicidal ideation in older adolescents co-occurring with major depression and/or substance abuse warrants heightened clinical concern for lethality.
- Early identification and management of major depression and substance abuse are critical in preventing suicide among college students.