Caregivers' experiences and perceptions of suicidality among their children and youth with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

Abstract

Individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) experience a range of biopsychosocial vulnerabilities that can increase the possibility of adverse life outcomes, including a heightened risk of suicidality. In this study, we explored the lived experiences of caregivers of children and youth with FASD and suicidality, including their perceptions of their child and youth's suicidal experiences. Between March and June 2021, six comprehensive, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five caregivers of children and youth with FASD (Mage = 14.5 years, range 11–22) who were currently experiencing suicidality or had a history of suicidality. Data were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis and then developed into a composite vignette informed and organized by the social-ecological suicide prevention model (SESPM). The composite vignette revealed the narratives of families living with and caring for children and youth with FASD who experience suicidality in relation to the complex and intersectional individual, relational, community, and societal level contextual and protective factors. Findings from this study highlight the critical need for comprehensive FASD-informed suicide prevention and intervention approaches to promote the mental health and wellbeing of children and youth with FASD and their caregivers.

Factors to be considered as part of a holistic assessment for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: A scoping review

“…In general, factors contributing to increased suicide risk included co‐occurring health conditions, poor education and social outcomes, increased number of home placements for those in OOHC, sociodemographic characteristics, substance use, early life trauma, familial conflict, stigma, geographic region (rural vs urban), COVID‐19, late/nonexistent access to services, and affect regulation impairments (Harding et al, 2022; O'Connor et al, 2019; Rangmar et al, 2017; Temple et al, 2019). Protective factors relating to suicidality included pursuit of personal interests, physical activity, helpful interactions to improve wellbeing, and time in nature (Flannigan, McMorris, et al, 2022; Harding et al, 2022).…”

Epigenetics of Trauma Transmission and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: What Does the Evidence Support?

“…Policies, such as child intervention, education, health, and criminal justice act as ways in which disability is given prominence as opposed to strength [38]. The racial pathway box serves as a reminder that child welfare, justice, and related systems are far more likely to be involved with the racialized population [125][126][127]. In addition, trauma does not have a single expression but rather can range from acute to chronic presentations and may be complex.…”

“…[38]. The racial pathway box serves as a reminder that child welfare, justice, and related systems are far more likely to be involved with the racialized population [125][126][127]. In addition, trauma does not have a single expression but rather can range from acute to chronic presentations and may be complex.…”