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Depressive symptoms and suicidal behavior in adolescents
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|May 1, 1985
Summary
Adolescent psychiatric patients reporting depressive symptoms and suicidal behavior accurately. Clinicians should identify major depressive disorder signs in at-risk youth.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Adolescent Psychology
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Suicidal behavior is a significant concern in adolescent psychiatric populations.
- Understanding the factors associated with suicidal behavior is crucial for intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess depressive symptoms and suicidal behavior in adolescent psychiatric patients.
- To identify predictors and correlates of suicidal behavior in this population.
Main Methods:
- A structured interview and the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia were used.
- Data were collected from 64 adolescent psychiatric patients.
Main Results:
- Medical seriousness of suicidal behavior correlated with intent to die and prior attempts.
- Suicidal behavior was linked to depression, negative self-perception, anhedonia, insomnia, poor concentration, indecisiveness, mood reactivity, psychomotor issues, and substance abuse.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents are reliable reporters of their suicide potential.
- Clinicians must recognize major depressive disorder symptoms for effective assessment of suicidal adolescents.