Suicidality in Youngers: an Observational Study in Outpatient Unit

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Adolescent Mental Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Suicidality, including ideation and attempts, is a significant global public health concern in adolescents.
• Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is common in adolescents and distinct from suicide attempts.
• Suicide remains a leading cause of death among young people worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify clinical features and risk factors associated with suicidality in adolescent inpatients.
• To analyze data from a psychiatric hospital admission cohort.
• To evaluate the utility of specific assessment tools in understanding adolescent suicidality.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of patient data from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024.
• Utilized Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Ask Suicide Questionnaire (ASQ), and G.T. MSRS scale for assessments.
• Examined 50 adolescent patients admitted to a psychiatric hospital.

Main Results:

• 60% of the 50 subjects (30 patients) had attempted suicide.
• A high majority (90%) met the criteria for a mixed state.
• The study confirmed a high prevalence of mixed states in inpatient admissions.

Conclusions:

• Mixed states are highly prevalent in adolescent psychiatric inpatient admissions.
• Structured interviews and validated suicide risk assessment scales are crucial.
• These assessments guide tailored psychopharmacological treatment and improve prognosis for adolescent suicidality.