Clinical Report: Suicidal Behaviors in Youths with Depression and Anxiety

Overview

This study estimates the prevalence of suicidal behavior among youths with depression and anxiety disorders, finding a prevalence rate of 84.4% in the past year. It evaluates the psychometric properties of the Suicidal Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ-R) and identifies associated social, demographic, and clinical factors.

Background

Suicidal behavior is a significant public health issue among youths with mental health disorders. This study focuses on a diverse Asian population in a clinical setting.

Data Highlights

The study involved 379 participants, revealing a prevalence of suicidal behavior of 84.4% in the past year among those diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorders.

Key Findings

• The SBQ-R demonstrated adequate psychometric properties for assessing suicidal behavior in this population.
• Indian ethnicity was associated with a lower likelihood of suicidal behavior compared to Chinese ethnicity.
• Current smokers were more likely to exhibit suicidal behaviors compared to non-smokers.
• Individuals with a history of childhood abuse had a higher risk of suicidal behavior.
• A PHQ-9 score of 10 and above was linked to increased suicidal behavior risk.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider the diverse factors influencing suicidal behavior when assessing and treating youths with depression and anxiety.

Conclusion

The study found a high prevalence of suicidal behavior among youths with depression and anxiety. The SBQ-R is a valuable tool for identifying at-risk individuals.

Related Resources & Content

1. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — The Role of Anxiety as a Mediator in the Link Between Childhood Trauma and Suicidal Thoughts in Individuals with Depression
2. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — Anxiety symptoms as a hub-mediation nexus in suicidal ideation among depressed patients
3. BMC Psychiatry — Mood dynamics in adolescents and young adults with and without a history of suicidal thoughts and actions: a network approach
4. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — Suicidal Behavior and Mixed Symptoms in Adolescent Depression: A Six-Month Follow-Up Analysis
5. Assessment and Management of Patients at Risk for Suicide (2024) - VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guidelines
6. Dual-Site aiTBS for Suicidal Ideation in Adolescents With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial | Psychiatry and Behavioral Health | JAMA Network Open | JAMA Network
7. Screening for depressive disorders: Validation of the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A) in a population-based multi-ethnic Asian sample - PubMed
8. Assessment and Management of Patients at Risk for Suicide (2024) - VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guidelines
9. Dual-Site aiTBS for Suicidal Ideation in Adolescents With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial | Psychiatry and Behavioral Health | JAMA Network Open | JAMA Network
10. Screening for depressive disorders: Validation of the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A) in a population-based multi-ethnic Asian sample - PubMed