A Pre-Adolescent and Adolescent Clinical Sample Study about Suicidal Ideation, Suicide Attempt, and Self-Harming

Abstract

Suicide is the second cause of death among adolescents, and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is one of the main risk factors for suicidal behavior. However, the possible variables specifically associated with suicidal ideation and suicide attempt, as well as the psychopathological characteristics linked to the concomitant presence of suicidal ideation/attempt and NSSI are still under-investigated in youth. The current study aimed to address these issues in a sample of 174 young Italian inpatients (Mage = 14.3 years ± 1.93, 78.2% girls). Sociodemographic and clinical variables were assessed through psycho-diagnostic interviews and ad hoc questionnaires. A binomial logistic regression was performed to identify the predictors of suicidal ideation and suicide attempt. Then, Kruskal–Wallis tests were run to analyze the psychopathological differences between patients with suicidal ideation and suicide attempt considering the coexistence of NSSI. The results highlighted that previous access to child mental health services and general psychopathological problems significantly predicted suicidal ideation, while previous hospitalizations, borderline personality functioning, and affective disorders significantly predicted suicide attempt. In general, inpatients with also NSSI reported higher levels of internalizing, somatic and total problems, impulsiveness, alexithymia, and emotional dysregulation. The clinical implications of our findings in terms of primary and secondary preventive programs are discussed.

Non-Suicidal Self-Injuries in Adolescents: The Role of Satisfaction with Family Life

“…A negative bond within the family can generate both internalizing and externalizing symptoms in the children, who manifest indifference, low motivation, detachment, within the family group (Fahrer et al, 2022). There are imperceptible signs of distress, such as suicidal thoughts and suicidal ideation, which should not be overlooked (Raffagnato et al, 2022); (De Berardis et al, 2020).…”

Emotions in Times of Pandemic Crisis among Italian Children: A Systematic Review

“…Moreover, a longitudinal approach is needed to determine the lasting effects of the pandemic and track the changes in affective disorders measured before the COVID-19 pandemic (baseline) and post-pandemic period, for example three or five years later. In addition, to provide early preventive interventions in the face of potential psychopathology exacerbation in future adolescents [ 104 ], research should examine differences between high-impact areas (especially the Lombardy region) and low-impact ones that were less involved.…”