Work

Analysis of risk factors associated with suicidality in children and adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in Western Australia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) are at an elevated suicide risk compared with those in the general population. This public health issue warrants further research attention to help inform the development of prevention and intervention efforts. Our study is the first to characterize suicidality (i.e., suicidal ideation/suicide attempt) and explore associated risk factors in young individuals with FASD within the Australian context. METHODS: Retrospective file reviews from a diagnostic clinic in Western Australia obtained data on demographic variables and risk factors, including psychosocial stressors (i.e., child protection and justice system involvement, history of abuse/neglect) and comorbid diagnoses (i.e., attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), attachment disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, substance use disorder, and sleep disorder). Data on suicidality were collected via formal suicide risk assessments and source documentation. RESULTS: = 11.75 years, range = 5-21 years). Of these, 40 (21%) reported suicidality, with the youngest being 5 years old. There was a significant positive correlation between suicidality and age. A greater proportion of individuals with FASD who had been involved with the justice system (n = 30, 35%) reported suicidality. Participants with attachment disorder (n = 19, 34%), conduct disorder (n = 10, 40%), substance use disorder (n = 14, 50%), and depression (n = 12, 60%) had significantly higher rates of suicidality than individuals without these comorbidities. The risk of suicidality increased in participants with comorbid depression (OR = 4.20) after controlling for age as a covariate. CONCLUSION: These findings add to the growing body of evidence that highlights the vulnerability of individuals with FASD to suicidality compared with the general population, underscoring the need for targeted, culturally safe suicide intervention/prevention efforts.

Source: Alcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research

DOI: 10.1111/acer.70039

Authors: Grace Kuen Yee Tan, Sophia G. Connor, Sunee Quinn, James Fitzpatrick, Isabelle Adams, Carmela F. Pestell

Institutions: The University of Western Australia, The Kids Research Institute Australia, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth Children's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Suicide and Self-Harm Studies

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,110