Predicting Psychiatric Rehospitalization in Adolescents

Adolescent psychiatric rehospitalizations are common, cause patients and their families severe psychological distress, and use tremendous healthcare resources. This study sought to identify predictors of rehospitalization in 783 adolescents in the 2 year period following psychiatric hospitalization at a major treatment facility in a large urban area. A current diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder, greater severity of lifetime suicidal ideation (SI) and stronger treatment alliance prior to hospitalization were associated with a greater likelihood of rehospitalization. Overall, severe lifetime SI was the strongest predictor of rehospitalization; although, within the first 4 months post-discharge, moderate lifetime SI was the strongest predictor. Future research should continue to identify additional factors that may influence rehospitalization, such as the intensity of post-discharge services.