Self-reported sleep and exercise patterns in patients admitted with suicidal attempts: a cross-sectional comparative...

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Epidemiology
• Sleep Medicine

Background:

• Sleep disturbances and exercise are recognized risk factors for suicide attempts.
• The independent association between sleep disturbances and suicide attempts remains debated.
• This study investigates the independent role of sleep disturbances in suicide attempts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare sleep and exercise patterns between suicide attempters and the general population.
• To determine if sleep disturbances are independently associated with suicide attempts.
• To identify specific sleep issues and lifestyle factors contributing to suicide risk.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving individuals who attempted suicide (n=127) and a control group (n=126).
• Data collected via questionnaires on sleep, exercise, demographics, and clinical measures.
• Utilized multiple regression analysis to identify significant risk factors.

Main Results:

• Suicide attempt group was younger, single, less educated, and reported more early insomnia, daytime tiredness, interrupted sleep, and no regular exercise.
• Adjustment disorder and major depression were common diagnoses; overdose was the most frequent method.
• Early insomnia, unemployment, and being of Arab or other nationalities were significantly associated with increased suicide attempt risk.

Conclusions:

• This study is the first comparative analysis of suicide in the Arabian Gulf region.
• Individuals in Qatar experiencing acute stress, depressive symptoms, sleep disturbances, and lack of exercise face higher suicide attempt risk.
• Clinicians should routinely screen for sleep disturbances and physical activity due to their impact on mental health.