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Association between Concussions and Suicidal Behaviors in Adolescents
Tahira Wangnoo1, Gerald Stanley Zavorsky1, Ashli Owen-Smith1
1Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
High school students who experienced a concussion had increased odds of suicidal behaviors, including ideation, planning, and attempts. This highlights the need for concussion prevention and mental health awareness in schools.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Neuroscience
- Adolescent Psychology
Background:
- Concussions are increasingly recognized for their long-term risks.
- The link between concussions and adolescent suicidal behaviors remains under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between concussions and suicidal behaviors in Utah high school students.
- To estimate the odds of hopelessness, suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts following a concussion.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the 2013 Utah Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) data.
- Inclusion of 2,195 high school students (grades 9-12).
- Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions controlling for demographic and behavioral factors.
Main Results:
- Students reporting concussions showed significantly higher odds of feeling hopeless (OR=1.7).
- Increased odds were observed for suicidal ideation (AOR=2.0), planning (AOR=2.0), and attempts (OR=2.3).
- These associations persisted after controlling for grade, sex, race, and alcohol use.
Conclusions:
- High school students with a history of concussion are more likely to report suicidal behaviors.
- Concussion prevention education in schools is recommended.
- Educating stakeholders on recognizing concussions and mental health outcomes is crucial.
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