Association of TSH, Fasting Glucose Levels, and Suicidal Thoughts in Adolescents

Overview

This study investigates the relationship between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, and suicidal ideation (SI) in adolescents diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability among adolescents and is closely linked to increased suicide risk. This study explores the potential roles of thyroid function and metabolic parameters in adolescents with MDD.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Lower fasting blood glucose levels were observed in adolescents with MDD compared to healthy controls.
• Logistic regression identified family relationship quality, HAMD-24 total score, TSH, and FBG levels as factors associated with SI.
• Higher TSH levels were linked to increased SI in adolescents with MDD.
• Adolescents with MDD had a prevalence of SI at 68%.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider assessing TSH and fasting glucose levels in adolescents with MDD as part of a comprehensive evaluation for suicide risk. Understanding the interplay between metabolic and psychological factors may enhance risk stratification and intervention strategies.

Conclusion

The study highlights the association between thyroid and metabolic parameters with suicidal ideation in adolescents with MDD.

Related Resources & Content

1. BMC Psychiatry, Springer, 2025 -- Frequency and Factors Associated with Overweight and Obesity in Individuals with Major Depression and Altered TSH Levels
2. Frontiers in Psychiatry -- Predictive value of antioxidant and thyroid function indicators for non-suicidal self-injury in adolescents with major depressive disorder
3. JAMA Network Open -- Dual-Site aiTBS for Suicidal Ideation in Adolescents With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Clinical
4. Clinical Practice Guideline for the Assessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents With Major and Persistent Depressive Disorders - ScienceDirect
5. Guidelines for Adolescent Depression in Primary Care (GLAD-PC): Part I. Practice Preparation, Identification, Assessment, and Initial Management | Pediatrics | American Academy of Pediatrics
6. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — Links Between Appetite Decrease and Psychopathological Factors Alongside Gender Variations in Adolescents Diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder
7. NICE Guidance for Thyroid Disease
8. Screening for Depression and Suicide Risk in Children and Adolescents: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement
9. Clinical Practice Guideline for the Assessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents With Major and Persistent Depressive Disorders - ScienceDirect
10. Guidelines for Adolescent Depression in Primary Care (GLAD-PC): Part I. Practice Preparation, Identification, Assessment, and Initial Management | Pediatrics | American Academy of Pediatrics
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15. Prevalence and correlates of suicide attempts in working-age, first-episode, drug-naïve major depressive disorder patients | BMC Psychiatry | Springer Nature Link
16. Coping styles moderate stress pathways to suicidal ideation in clinic-based sample of Chinese adolescents with depression | Scientific Reports